Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We had a lengthy discussion this morning on economic impact studies ex ante and ex post. I do not have anything to add to that. I agree with the philosophy underpinning Deputy Doherty's amendment, but I must deploy limited resources in the most effective way. In any of the big areas, we always undertake cost-benefit impact studies and will continue to apply that principle. Internationally, the debate is moving in Deputy Doherty's direction. Under the new budget rules coming down the line in Europe, there will be a formalisation of the policy the Deputy suggests.