Feargal Quinn (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Often, when I am a buying a newspaper, I say to the vendor, "Give me one with only good news in it". It is interesting that newspapers over the past few days have much good economic news in them. We should be careful to ensure we continue with the vigour and energy of recent times to create good news on the creation of extra jobs, the return of investor confidence and improved sales. I am concerned, however, that, like on occasions in the past, we go too far and take our eye off the ball. We must make sure the new Cabinet insists on maintaining the vigour and energy it needs to keep this going.

In the election manifestos and the programme for Government, the Cabinet made several promises it has not kept. For instance, I was delighted a promise had been made to reduce the number of quangos. However, while it has reduced them by 45, it has created 33 new ones. There is a legislative solution to upward-only rent which I have urged is passed through the Dáil. I hope the new Cabinet will ensure it is passed soon because it will create confidence.

The Government must make sure it continues with all its efforts to ensure businesses get the opportunity to survive and thrive.

Too often we place too many bureaucracy red tape controls on businesses. Small businesses need a lot of help, but they are not looking for any help other than removing the barriers. The new Cabinet should make this a priority and aim at it. If it does we will manage to keep the ship afloat for the next number of years.