Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)

It relates to servicing our national debt. What is much more pressing, as has been alluded to by many, is dealing with the deficit in 2010 of €18.5 billion. To follow on from Senator O'Toole's comments, it would be beneficial for us to have a report on progress in the Croke Park agreement, the efficiencies that have been introduced and where we are getting more from less in that regard. Do we need to revisit any aspects of the deal?

Senator Harris mentioned that the cost of public services had increased substantially by €6 billion over recent years. While neither individuals, families nor constituents would like to contemplate further cuts in the likes of public sector pay and services, the reality is that it is inevitable. At the earliest possible convenience and at least every week over the next four weeks, there should be a debate on these matters so that Members of this House can feed directly into where we think the money can be cut best. There is no question that the process will be very painful for every household in the country but we must work together to ensure we identify the services that people can best do without. The reality is that is what we will be doing. There is no money and the process is about sacrifice and cuts. We have no other choice.