Oireachtas Joint and Select Committees

Wednesday, 12 July 2023

Committee on Budgetary Oversight

Summer Economic Statement 2023: Discussion

Photo of Aindrias MoynihanAindrias Moynihan (Cork North West, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

We have looked at economic indicators and their impact on the budget. The budget is also supposed to deliver for society. We have a framework being constructed to measure the values significant to society. It is the well-being framework, which looks at a range of issues. I will home in on two: housing and biodiversity. While many indicators are positive, these two are showing up negatives. Housing is strong and positive on delivery and we are seeing that every day with construction and houses being delivered. However, the inequality indicator for housing is a strong negative.

Biodiversity and environment are also showing up a negative indicator. I want to try to get an understanding. Because the framework is intended on steering the budget, how does the Minister see these indicators influencing budgetary ambitions? Where would we see this being reflected in the forthcoming budget?