Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

I want to put on the record of this House that it was also in good faith that we engaged constructively and respectfully in government formation talks with both the Labour Party and the Social Democrats, and I thank them for that engagement. I do not believe there are policy differences which we were not prepared to negotiate on, but obviously I respect the decisions of both these parties to not enter Government on this occasion. We must have a Government - a Government which functions effectively and in the interests of our people. That is the imperative after the people have their say on election day. That Government must then be accountable to Dáil Éireann, and we must move forward with the people's business in solving problems, finding solutions and passing and scrutinising important legislation in the Dáil, Seanad and Oireachtas committees. It is now surely incumbent on us all to get on with the work. It is my firm conviction that the message of the people from the last election and of people across Ireland in the last week is to stop shouting, roaring and hollering at each other, to turn up for work and to get on with the job. We need to see delivery in so many areas.

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