Brendan Smith (Cavan-Monaghan, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Has the issue of the deficit for the 2012-13 budget been resolved? The Tánaiste has indicated that the Parliament discussed the securing of additional funding by way of own resources. Have particular sources of revenue been identified in this regard? The financial transaction tax which is not acceptable to us is probably the one with the most potential. Are other areas being considered by the Commission, the Council or the Parliament?

There was concern following the Council's agreement last February in respect of continued regional development funding for the BMW region. Has that matter been resolved?

Is there likely to be a substantial cut in the budget for research and innovation development which comes within the remit of the Irish Commissioner, Ms Máire Geoghegan-Quinn? If we are to address the long-term employment issues within Europe, surely it makes no sense to cut funding for research and innovation? That funding is essential if we are to acquire the knowledge and know-how to create much needed employment on the island and throughout the other 27 member states from 1 July.

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