Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

I understand the intention is for the convention to operate on an independent, inclusive and non-partisan basis, and to involve citizen participation.

There are tremendous challenges ahead, but the Government is absolutely committed to delivering on the programme for Government. The new programme for national recovery received 55.5% of the popular vote through votes for Fine Gael and the Labour Party, which is a huge mandate for delivering institutional reforms, rebuilding confidence in our economy and bringing fairness and equality back to the heart of the Government. We now have a Government with a mandate and a willingness to face the hard decisions required and offer real leadership to the Irish people.