Micheál Martin: “There are no democratic or humanitarian values which are flexible enough to justify the scale of death, destruction and…”

I was involved in these issues in the previous government and agreement was hammered out at that stage - an agreement was arrived at, and we want to do well by honouring that agreement on all sides.

The Government was leaning towards a pause on carbon tax on home heating oil for the lifetime of the Government.

I do not believe the basis exists for industrial action. I don't believe the public should have to endure that, because there have been significant tax cuts in the Budget, which will help workers.

The rate of growth is declining. But to use words like ‘brutal’ is completely over the top, if you don't mind me saying so, and a gross exaggeration.