Ahern puts case for new term for coalition

The Taoiseach has warned that the next election could result in an inexperienced, panicky and incompetent Government unless the…

The Taoiseach has warned that the next election could result in an inexperienced, panicky and incompetent Government unless the present Coalition is returned to office.

Speaking as host of the annual Fianna Fβil fundraising dinner in Dublin, Mr Ahern said the present Government had distinguished itself by its ability to work as a team and solve problems in partnership with others.

When listening to the budget debate this week, he said, "it struck me, if there is one thing Ireland does not need after next Summer's election, it is a new and inexperienced Government that is overwhelmed by its task and starts pressing the panic buttons, destroying all the good work and the confidence built up over the last 14 years." Calling on voters to re-elect the Fianna Fβil/Progressive Democrat Coalition, he demanded the same support the Irish soccer team would receive in the World Cup. "Our plans are ready. Our track record is clear", he said.

"Mick McCarthy and his team go to Japan next June. In sport you support loyally the people who get the best results for the national team in international competition. We will be asking the Irish electorate to do the very same and on that basis to award not just this party but this particular Government a second term, the first for over 30 years."