Michael Mullins (Fine Gael)

I support Senator Ó Murchú's request for a debate because we are all very much aware of the contribution community organisations make to life throughout the country. A debate would show them we are interested and support what they are doing. An economic benefit could derive from us all putting our heads together to discuss this matter.

Senator Cullinane was rather negative. He is unfair to the Government by saying no effort has been made to create jobs. When the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and the Government outlined their strategy in this regard, they indicated that what was being put in place would be just the first phase. Will the Leader facilitate at an early stage a further discussion with the Minister on job creation? The biggest crisis facing the country is unemployment, with 450,000 on the live register, and the number of young people emigrating. The matter needs to be discussed but it must be acknowledged that progress is being made. The reduction in the VAT rate and so on were positive initiatives and, for example, jobs were created in the tourism industry. I would like another debate on how all of us might contribute to assisting the Government and make the next leap and significant contribution to the jobs crisis facing the country. I am sure the Minister would be prepared to come to the House to listen to what Members have to say while taking on board shortcomings and failings and positive contributions.