Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

Reading the Finance Bill at breakfast this morning, I was reminded of Karl Marx's observation that all history is based on economics. Regardless of the truth or otherwise of that statement, anyone reading the Minister for Finance, Deputy Cowen's first Finance Bill must conclude that our recent economic history has placed him in an enviable position. The Bill contains much good news and I am happy to support it. What finance Minister in Europe or any developed country can come before a national Parliament with such a positive package for endorsement?

I listened to the debate with interest and had to pinch myself several times. I will not pick on a particular Deputy but when the budget was announced 70 days ago the House completed its business by 8 p.m. because there was little debate and everybody was happy with the Minister's many pronouncements. Suddenly, a short ten weeks later, our colleagues in opposition have resurrected themselves and are trying to tell us what is wrong with the Bill.

See this speech in context