Labhrás Ó Murchú (Fianna Fail)

First, I commend Senator Landy on bringing up this issue, which he referred to as being a micro issue. As Members discuss, as they must, bigger policies and as they look at the bigger picture, they often miss out on the individual suffering that exists on the ground.

It is in the same context that I ask the Deputy Leader to lay aside some time fairly soon to discuss the issue of national self-reliance. During the last couple of recessionary years, it has been quite evident that Ireland has become a much more competitive country and this should be borne in mind in the lead-up to Christmas. While this may appear to be a micro issue, there is an opportunity to help those people, particularly in small businesses, who are exceptionally challenged at present, as well as those who are losing their jobs. This could be done, were Members to focus on the same things on which there was a focus when the State was first set up, at which time it probably was led by organisations such as the GAA and Conradh na Gaeilge, namely, buying Irish-made goods. First, because it is quite clear the quality of Irish-made goods is second to none. Second, because, as I stated, Ireland has become much more competitive. It is only a matter of making a conscious decision regarding the money one will spend, and a lot of money will be spent by those who have it, over the Christmas period. However, if one makes such a conscious decision, one not only will be buying the item one wishes to buy but will be helping those businesses which have three or four employees, particularly in smaller communities. Were they to be helped, it might result in, when one puts it all together, between 10% and 20% more money staying at home instead of leaving the country.

I acknowledge Members cannot legislate for this and am cognisant of the restrictions arising from being part of a European community. However, I merely am putting forward one suggestion. People will listen to Members' debates on "Oireachtas Report" or will read a limited amount in the newspapers. Generally, Members deal with issues that are somewhat contentious politically among themselves. However, the issue to which I refer is not contentious because all Members seem to agree on one thing, namely, the need to be positive. Members must ensure they are not simply paying lip-service to the sufferings of people but are taking practical steps. Would it not be great, were Members to lay aside a half-day to debate self-reliance, as was practised in the early days of the State when we were challenged in the past? Despite all the legislation with which Members must deal, I appeal to the Deputy Leader to ascertain whether it might be possible to lay aside a half day, because there would be no confrontational debate. All Members would be singing from the same hymn sheet and above all else, they would be sending out a message that they are both genuine and sincere in trying to help those who cannot help themselves.