Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

My next question is on the EU budgetary rules, specifically the expenditure benchmark. I raised this with the Minister during Question Time recently. I have both a question and concern to raise. My concern is that a further restriction is being placed on the room for manoeuvre of the State and any Government in respect of its expenditure decisions. My question arises because there seems to be a controversy over, or difference of opinion as to whether, the expenditure benchmark is binding or provided by way of strong but non-binding guidance. I have read strong opinions on both sides of that argument. The Minister indicated when we spoke last that he regarded the arrangement as binding. I would like the Minister to clarify this again.