Statement from Deputy Barry Cowen

Speaking following an address by An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar about the ongoing COVID-19 emergency Deputy Barry Cowen said, “Last night the Taoiseach delivered a St Patrick’s Day address like no other. Our country has never faced a situation like this, and it is important that we face it united.

“Every effort is being made by all Parties and none to assist the Government in tackling COVID-19 so that its lethal spread can be severely limited. This is why we fully support the medical advice in relation hygiene etiquette and most importantly social distancing.

“As a Party Fianna Fáil has made and continues to make many practical suggestions to help and assist all sectors of society. We need to see swift, genuine and practical action.

“We need to ensure that Revenue, Local Authorities, Banks, Landlords and Utility Services provide breaks to their tenants and customers in the form of payment holidays. These must last for as long as the crisis lasts and to minimise any financial burden.

“The State have reserves in form of a Government surplus, ISIF funding, NTMA reserves, the Rainy-Day fund, NAMA dividends and borrowing options. During these uncertain times decisions will need to be made that allow us to deliver on the commitments made by Taoiseach last night – these reserves will be imperative.

“Throughout all this Fianna Fáil are also obligated to try to form a strong and stable Government so that the people’s mandate from February 8th can be respected and upheld. Talks begin today with Fine Gael and the seriousness of the challenge facing us are not lost on anyone. Our main priority is to acknowledge, support and augment the Government’s public health policy in response to the COVID-19 crisis.

“Parallel to that, we will seek to question, challenge, and make real proposals to address the economic challenges in supporting business, workers and families as the financial pressures mount.

“Decisions around these issues will be required and legislation will be needed, such legislation will need to be proposed, debated and passed by an accountable and functioning Government with a working majority. Other priorities, particularly housing will be to the forefront of the Governments job.

“As a Party we have always worked in the national interest. We provided stability in through the turbulent Brexit period and we will do so again now as we get through COVID-19 crisis together.

“I would urge people to turn away from fake news, be critical thinkers and interrogate everything you read. Only look to reliable sources and do not give in to panic or scaremongering.

“We are famed for our generous nature and there has never been a time where our generosity is needed more to look after those who are elderly or more vulnerable,” he concluded.