Jonathan O’ Brien TD dismisses Taoiseach’s “economic sovereignty” remarks at Beal na mBlath as ‘hollow’ rhetoric.

Jonathan O’ Brien TD dismisses Taoiseach’s “economic sovereignty” remarks at Beal na mBlath as ‘hollow’ rhetoric. Calls on Enda Kenny to reflect on the content of speech given government’s actions. Sinn Fein’s TD for Cork North-Central, Jonathan O’Brien, has dismissed the Taoiseach’s remarks at Beal na mBlath as hollow rhetoric and has urged the Taoiseach to reflect on his comments in light of the government’s refusal to put Irish interests ahead of those of international concerns. Mr. Kenny was the keynote speaker at the annual gathering to commemorate the death of Michael Collins. Commenting on the content of the Taoiseach’s speech, O’Brien said: “This government has continuously put the interests of a federalising Europe ahead of the economic and social needs of its own people. This coalition has pushed-on with the disastrous policy of bailing-out corrupt banks at the behest of foreign concerns that are looking out for their own corporate and political cartels. The government has used public money to facilitate and now we see the consequences in the form of the inequitable household tax cuts in education funding from primary school right up to postgraduate grants and the forthcoming water charges. Indeed the crisis in local government funding is a devastating result of their approach. “When you look at even these few examples you would have to say that it is hypocritical for the Taoiseach to talk of how this government is fighting for Ireland’s economic sovereignty. The hard evidence runs contrary to this claim. I think it was very irresponsible of the Taoiseach, to come to Cork, and spin his government’s subservience to European technocrats and faceless international bondholders with some form of hollow pseudo-patriotic rhetoric. He should reflect on this given that so many ordinary people are now struggling as result of decisions taken on his watch.” Deputy O Brien’s comments come on the back of Sinn Fein President, Gerry Adams’, own critique of the speech in which he stated: “Whatever one thinks of Michael Collins, he acted in line with his decisions. On the other hand, Mr Kenny’s assertive language is totally at variance with his actions.” For further comment please contact Jonathan O’Brien TD on 0860274142