Political responsibility for economic crisis
Senators Harte and Leyden trade accusations over past governments, election promises and responsibility for current social welfare difficulties.
I will not go into detail in respect of the comments of Senator Terry Leyden and others on how difficult yesterday was and how certain individuals should be praised for standing up for the people of Ireland. I must point out, however, that the reason we are in the position we occupy is the Senator and his colleagues opposite voted for Bertie Ahern as Taoiseach on three separate occasions. That is the end of the matter.
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The reason is the Minister for Health overspent by €400 million.
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What about the 3% increase in the universal social charge for those earning over €100,000? It is all about choices and the promises made before the general election.
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Senator Jimmy Harte appeared on television with the Tánaiste, Deputy Eamon Gilmore, when those promises were being made. How can he stand up in this House and talk about our record?
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The Senators opposite protest too much.
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My advice to Senator Jimmy Harte is that he should return to Fine Gael.