Ivor Callely (Independent)

I welcome the opportunity to participate in this Private Members' debate on the National Recovery Plan 2011-2014. We seem to be on a roller-coaster of an economic and financial nightmare with everything falling apart. There is a general air of anxiety and demoralisation. Unemployment and financial burdens have brought hardship, suffering and personal degradation into almost every home. The spectacle of well-educated young people unable to find suitable work and being forced to emigrate is deeply regrettable. The social advances made over the past decade, along with other advances made by our country are likely to be affected. The perception is that the present Government is adjusting everything downward with mass unemployment, financial crisis, additional taxes, widespread hardship and an inability for this Fianna Fáil-led Administration to govern.

I know it is not necessary, but I will take this opportunity to give the Government, through the Minister of State, a very clear message from the public, that we are holding it responsible for the mess this country is in.

For a variety of political gains, there has been a destructive propaganda campaign about our economy, our finances and the Government's administration. A vacuum has been allowed to develop and there is a widespread feeling among the public that there is no one at any level in the current Administration capable of taking control. The view is that the Government is completely at a loss and unable to cope. We are just short of the masses shouting: "Crucify him; crucify him." Although the festive season is approaching, I do not share this type of play, especially at such a crucial period in our country's history. The Government has made mistakes and should raise its hand and apologise.