Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny has accused the Government of deliberate and wilful neglect of the economy.
Mr Kenny was speaking at the opening of his parliamentary party strategy session in Limerick city.
He also said his party would be very interested in talking to members of the Progressive Democrats looking for a new political home - especially those elected with Fine Gael votes.
Mr Kenny said the economy would be central to Fine Gael's thoughts and actions in the coming Dáil session.
He welcomed the prospect of a new national pay deal - but called on the Government to produce detailed plans for the recovery of the economy.
Fine Gael TDs and senators are expected to focus on the economy, the Lisbon Treaty and how to win more seats in next year's European and local elections at the two-day meeting.
Mr Kenny is the only party leader still in place following last year's General Election.
Earlier this week, the party said it would back any plan to ratify some parts of the Lisbon Treaty through the Dáil.
Guest speakers to the party at the Limerick Radisson include the ERSI's Alan Barrett and US political analyst Professor Drew Westen.
