Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I will answer that question shortly. On the Deputy's earlier question, the number of Civil Service pensioners is 18,400. There are also individuals in receipt of public service pensions.

We will send the figure the Deputy seeks to the committee secretariat.

I support the Government policy of reducing the USC over time. The key issue is that changes must be made in a measured manner. In reply to Deputy Paul Murphy's question on whether we needed a substantial increase in public expenditure, I indicated we must steadily increase public expenditure over time in a manner that is affordable and allows us to continue to make progress and increase efficiency. The same applies in respect of reductions in tax. The key issue is to ensure changes are made on a graduated basis over time and we do not lose sight of our income and expenditure levels.