Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)

Absolutely. However, the Minister will note from the figures that since 2002, tax as a proportion of GNP has increased substantially. It has increased in absolute terms and as a proportion of income. I am not making that up; it is the truth. The statistic indicates that although we have enjoyed exceptional growth, we are increasing taxes. If we were achieving value in terms of public spending, one could defend that. However, we are not getting such value.

My thesis is not that the Government is raising tax and is cruel and heartless, it is that it is not delivering on the spending side.

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