Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

The disturbance at the gates of Leinster House last night is a reminder of how much we owe the organised trade union movement in this country. The leadership - I salute the comments of Mr. Jack O'Connor in recent times - and the provision of a voice to people who are angry because they have lost jobs or are under very severe pressure has been the right way to approach the crisis we are experiencing. As we know, the disturbance last night will not provide a single job.

It is important for us with a platform on a daily basis in this Chamber to point out the positive actions of recent times. The stance of the trade union movement is important and the contribution made in particular by Fine Gael has been vital with regard to the Croke Park agreement. That should not be underestimated.

I listened a radio programme this morning, most of which was given over to exhorting people to stay in Ireland and spend their holidays here. That is what we need currently. There has been a sea change in the media; looking back we will find a more responsible attitude at present. Any of us in the Chamber could read out at least four major statements coming from Europe indicating that Ireland is tackling the present economic crisis in the right way. One country in particular indicated it could learn from Ireland's actions.

Putting those positive elements together we can compare them to the position which existed at the beginning of the recession. There was doom and gloom at the start but we are turning the corner at this time. We should not overstate last night's disturbance, which was very regrettable; it is not right for gardaí to find themselves in that position. However, if we overstate it, we will only provide oxygen to those who prefer agitation to expression of discontent.