Opposition try to have it both ways on capital spending - Dooley

Timmy Dooley, Fianna Fáil TD for Clare has dismissed Opposition criticisms of the capital plan announced today saying Fine Gael are trying to have it both ways as usual. Today’s announcement will create and support 260,000 sustainable jobs over the next five years.

Deputy Dooley said, “The capital investment programme announced today is double the EU average. It is focused on creating sustainable jobs, helping Irish companies grow and attracting more foreign investment. This is exactly the type of stimulus that the economy needs to help rebuild confidence and speed up economic recovery."

“As usual Fine Gael have criticized the Government for not investing enough while at the same acknowledging the difficult economic circumstances we find ourselves in. As usual they want to have it both ways. On the hand Fine Gael says we are spending too little and on the other hand, we are not spending enough. This comes a week after their own jobs strategy, New Era, which claimed FG could create 100,000 jobs was rubbished by Finance Spokesman Michael Noonan."

“We are doubling investment into enterprise research and innovation. In addition tender prices are down 30% since their peak delivering greater value for money for the taxpayer. Today Employers Group, IBEC endorsed the programme and said, "Government has rightly prioritised the employment aspects of investment. In addition to the much needed infrastructure projects, the plan provides for increased investment in enterprise development, education, skills and R&D.""

"Perhaps it is time for Fine Gael to acknowledge this Government is taking decisive action to return this country to growth and prosperity," concluded Deputy Dooley.