This is a time of global uncertainty. It is a time of great difficulty and anxiety for all of society. I am more than conscious of the impact that a series of geopolitical shocks have had on people's earnings and their spending power. Inflation hurts everyone. Each crisis - Brexit, Covid-19, Ukraine, Gaza, US trade tariffs and the military action by Israel and the United States against Iran - has had a damaging impact on the price of everyday items, ranging from the weekly shop to clothing prices to topping up at the fuel pump. Tá a fhios againn, áfach, in aimsir na géarchéime, go bhfuil gá le Rialtas daingean agus slán sábháilte a chuirfidh ar fáil, ní buiséad amháin ach dhá, trí, ceithre agus cúig bhuiséad de réir a mhandáid dhaonlathach ón bpobal. We know, in times of crisis, that there is a need for a stable and secure Government that will deliver not one but two, three, four and five budgets in line with its democratic mandate from the people. This Government is providing supports to cushion the inflationary blow insofar as is possible within the limits of responsible management of the public finances, always mindful of the unpredictable and volatile nature of global affairs, which could lead to further economic shocks at any time in the future. Mar a deirimid, ní hé lá na gaoithe, lá na scolb. In these challenging times, responsible, stable and measured government is what is required. This Government is delivering just that. For that reason, I will support the motion of confidence this afternoon.

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