Mr. Paul Ginnell:

Ms O'Brien covered the system we would have if the tax take was increased. Deputy Doherty's final question referred to the impact. It is about having a proper process for assessing the impact in advance of budgetary measures. Currently, there are no measures to assess the multiple impacts of budgetary decisions on people. The current process of impact assessment needs to be expanded to include gender, equality and poverty assessment. It must be robust to ensure properly informed decisions are being made. The impact over the past number of years has been negative in terms of equality, poverty and gender equality. It is essential that this is done in advance in a comprehensive manner and that this is publicised in order that the public is aware of the process that has taken place.