Mary White (Fianna Fail)

We are the only English speaking country in the 17 country eurozone. This is highly attractive to multinational companies which locate in Ireland to manufacture goods and supply services to the European market. Where would we be without multinational companies?

My life has been very much wrapped up in the issue of industrial development. I am pleased the Government and the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Richard Bruton, recognises the significance of multinational investment. The former Taoiseach, Mr. John Bruton, did not share his brother's passion when he was Minister for industry.

I do not know if Senator Whelan read today's edition of the Financial Times, the most important newspaper in the world, in which the Minister for Social Protection, Deputy Burton, states she wants to secure a better deal for Ireland. The Minister is not seeking anything different from what Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív wants.