Frances Fitzgerald (Fine Gael)

It is critical that the House have the opportunity to consider the plan brought forward by the Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Barry Andrews, and that we have ongoing debate on its implementation. The political system must be seen to respond effectively and in an ongoing manner to the issues raised. We need further discussion on the budget for the implementation plan.

I want to return to a topic and key concern that I raised yesterday, namely, job creation. Over 400,000 people are unemployed. I want to return, in particular, to the issue of jobs in SR Technics and the discussions with Ryanair. There has been much comment recently to the effect that Ryanair has a hidden agenda. Its agenda has never really been hidden; it is about profit. It has been very clear and there has never been any mistake about it. Given the unemployment rate, these are extraordinary times. I hope the Government, especially the Tánaiste, and Ryanair will ensure the retention of jobs. The representatives at the meeting yesterday had a 51% stake in Aer Lingus. Irrespective of whether it is a question of a lease or discussions thereon, whether hangar 6 is not being used or whether the lease was only renegotiated last year, if there is scope, surely the Government, especially the Tánaiste and the Taoiseach, should be moving mountains to ensure the 300 jobs can be kept in this country rather than moved to another. If one thinks about the personal cost to those involved and their families, not to speak of the cost to the State of unemployment, surely every effort should be made in the coming days to save these jobs. I propose an amendment to the Order of Business that the Tánaiste come to the House to discuss the Government's job creation plan. It is not just a question of the 300 jobs in SR Technics but of the job creation plan throughout the State and the role of FÁS. I meet people every week who have been offered courses by FÁS that are not suited to their needs. Some days agao I met a construction worker who had been offered a receptionist course. I am not saying what is appropriate or inappropriate for a particular person in his or her own circumstances but surely we should be discussing the macro approach to job creation in the House today.