Brendan Howlin (Wexford, Labour) | Oireachtas source

We are debating taxation, which is not in my remit. I am not the Minister with responsibility for taxation. I presume Deputy Spring has rehearsed these arguments with the Minister for Finance. I agree with the Deputy that we have asked the people to carry a heavy burden to date. We will have to ask them to carry further burdens but that can only be done on the basis of solidarity and fairness. I also agree we have to construct a budget which manifests these elements. That will present a major challenge but it is what both parties in Government have set out to achieve. I have taken note of the Deputy’s proposals and in my dialogue with the Minister, Deputy Noonan, I will ensure they are fully thrashed out.