Dominic Hannigan (Labour)

It is not a valid form of protest. This is a democracy and people will have a chance to show their contempt for the Government at the ballot box. The resignation this morning of the former Minister, Deputy McDaid, is a sure sign, with four by-elections now outstanding, that the Government is coming apart at the seams. It is interesting that the Deputy Leader is taking the Order of Business because it is being reported in the newspapers that his party is being pushed into accepting an increase in student registration fees of almost 60% or €20 a week. This will push many students out of college and onto the dole.

The coalition is also at odds on matters such as climate change legislation, despite the Deputy Leader's assurance that the House would see such legislation. Moreover, although Members have also received assurances regarding legislation to hold the Dublin mayoral election, as a previous speaker noted, there is no such legislation on the Order Paper again this week. How long can the Green Party hang in there when it is clear that it is being pushed around and not delivering on its agenda? As Independent Members are also getting very nervy, there are clear signs the Government is coming apart at the seams.

This cannot come soon enough because this morning the rate for Ireland's bond yields rose to more than 7.2%; the difference between Ireland's bond yields and those of Germany is now almost 5%. Clearly, the international markets have no confidence in the Government. Confidence must be restored and the only way to do this is through the provision of a fresh mandate, which would require a general election. I speak to many people, including tradesmen, farmers and teachers, in my native county of Meath, all of whom have nothing but contempt for the Government. They are angry with it and frustrated, but rather than take action by throwing buckets of paint over some hapless and ineffectual Minister, they must do so at the ballot box. This should happen soon.