Fine Gael has just come from a successful Ard Fheis where we demonstrated across a range of policy areas that we have the know how and the ability to lead the next Government.

In areas like the Economy, Health, Education, Job creation and job protection we want to do things in a different manner. Different to the tired old way that has stagnated our country and led us to the very challenging times we face today.

Every economy needs a plan setting out where it wants to go. The present government does not have a plan. They are tired and need a spell in opposition.

Poll ratings are good for Fine Gael at the moment. We have been consistently ahead of FF for the last 6 months but that is not enough. The gaping hole in our public finances and the doubling in our unemployment figures are the issues that people want addressed by their politicians. How parties respond to those issues will decide the make up of the next Government.