Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)
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The Council recommendations for the 2016 budget guidelines are an important orientation of how member states would like to see next year's budget prepared. Ireland can support this Council recommendation, as it strikes the correct balance between investment in growth and job creation and recognising the requirement for fiscal prudence. This discussion takes place against the backdrop of severe economic challenges which still confront many member states. We welcome the fact that these guidelines, while acknowledging the current economic situation, also reflect the need to provide resources which would seek to boost growth, promote employment and enhance EU competitiveness. We concur with the view expressed by other member states that the provision of sufficient payment margin is prudent from a budgetary management perspective. Again, there are certain countries that wish to keep budgets very tight because they have the perspective of the people who pay for these things. Other countries want more expansion.