Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

Very often, in the midst of the big stories and debates, we miss out on some small stories that are generally stories of service, co-operation and compassion. I refer in particular to people who are at the end of the road in solving the problems brought about as a result of the collapse of the Celtic tiger. They are on the verge and we have debated that here on many occasions. I was particularly pleased to see that a new group has been established in County Laois called the Phoenix Project, which is an appropriate title. The sub-title is New Beginnings. This is directed at helping people who cannot help themselves in the context of not being able to pay their mortgages and their bills. These are people who would not have €10 in their pocket. They also try to look after the welfare of their children.

In all the big controversies and debates these are the forgotten people, the people of no property or means. We have learned nothing from the history of Ireland in the past. We are great at looking at something retrospectively and saying what we might have done but these people are in every townland, village, town and city in Ireland, and they have no voice. This group, the Phoenix Project, has given them a voice. It is a not for profit organisation. It has accountants, solicitors, counsellors and support groups, all of whom are available within a resource centre. There have been many cases-----