Sean Barrett (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I note with concern the report by Professor Alan Barrett on the national economic dialogue. He points to the considerable contradiction between people arguing for extra spending and being unwilling to pay for it. That is what got us into trouble previously. It is an echo of the past. In Dublin Castle last week, 140 people from unions, business, farming and the voluntary sector met. All of them want more and, presumably, this House is meant to borrow the money. Nobody is coming up with suggestions on taxation. Seamus Coffey, the other economist concerned, said there was little agreement about how the extra taxes would be raised.

Regarding low pay, the family income supplement is the instrument we use to combat low pay and it should be part of this package, in addition to the minimum wage that has been mentioned. It is being neglected. I often wonder why advocates for more income redistribution in Ireland rarely refer to family income supplement. It appears to be a blind spot, but it could be very important in helping the incomes of low income people who are at work.

I welcome the resumption of diplomatic relations between the United States and Cuba. Ireland is friendly with both countries, so it is most welcome.

I thank the Cathaoirleach, the Leader, the secretariat, the ushers and all those who help to serve this House. We are indebted to them. I hope we will return to this building. There are some stories that we will be moved because it is a fire hazard and so forth. I have been in some of the other buildings with the banking inquiry, but this is the best debating Chamber in Britain or Ireland. I hope it stays that way and if there are repairs to be done I hope they are done as quickly as possible.