Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

The motion outlined by Fine Gael gives us an opportunity to explain to this House why the Government has taken this necessary action. Many of the decisions were unpalatable and difficult for many members of the Government. The Government had to make these decisions in the national interest to ensure we had credibility, to ensure we could survive in 2010 and to ensure the Government and the Oireachtas will be making decisions on behalf of the people rather than some outside body that may have to visit these shores if the Government were not willing to make difficult decisions and stand up and be counted. That must be acknowledged.

No political party wants to have confrontation with its employees. I say this in the context of the public sector and the Civil Service. This Government is fully aware that it has asked the public sector to carry a heavy burden in our difficulties. We acknowledge this will have a negative impact on their lives. I said in the Dáil last night that it is best to take these decisions now rather than find we are not capable of paying our way or that we do not have the capacity to fund social welfare, health, education and the public service. These decisions are necessary. I look forward to the rest of the debate.

It would be useful if we debated the issues based on fact. Unfortunately, some of the contributions on the figure of €4 billion, particularly from the Opposition, are mythical. They do not stand up to scrutiny. I advocate taking any good ideas from the Opposition but clearly-----