Pearse Doherty (Donegal South West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I am surprised that the view of the Department is that the 0.5% deficit is not the appropriate figure. We have had a referendum on this issue. As far as I understand, it is written in the legislation or the treaty that 0.5% is the figure.

I will turn to other issues that have been identified and challenges we face in respect of the medium-term objectives. It has again been pointed out by the Fiscal Advisory Council that trying to maintain the level of spending over the next five years at the level anticipated by the Minister that is spelt out in the stability programme update will result in real pressures, particularly on health and education. Again, it has asked the Minister to look at that area. Indeed the IMF has asked that as well. Is that something the Minister is considering?