Conor Lenihan (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

——of the Government's performance and the economy generally. The Opposition can and often does throw things out just to cause problems for the Government. However, we are going through a difficult time and we need honest and open commentary from the Opposition based on facts and not simple political assertion to achieve a result. The person the Senator is backing has a more modulated view than others in the Opposition ranks. I appreciate that while Deputy Bruton has a robust go, he does not always take it to the nth degree and make gravity defying statements like other Opposition Deputies. I wish him well. It is not for me to take a position on that contest but Deputy Kenny also has a contribution to make. Let the best man win. Whatever happens within Fine Gael, I hope it leads to a better and more appropriate debate on economic issues, which are at the heart of our country's survival and the prosperity of our people.