Noel Treacy (Galway East, Fianna Fail)

Is cúis áthais dom é an deis seo a bheith agam cuidiú sa díospóireacht seo ar an mBille Airgeadais 2005, agus déanaim comhghairdeas leis an Aire, an Teachta Cowen, as ucht na sárcháinaisnéise a chuir sé faoi bhráid na Dála. Is Bille iontach leathan é atá os ár gcomhair an tráthnóna seo. I value the opportunity to contribute to this important debate. Deputies are aware that in a busy legislative schedule, the Finance Bill is one of the major Government Bills to come before the Oireachtas each year. This is the Minister's first Finance Bill at the helm of the Department of Finance, having succeeded Commissioner Charlie McCreevy who, over seven Finance Bills, steered the economy on the vigorous course that has seen it become one of the most dynamic in the world. I have no doubt the Minister, Deputy Cowen, will build on and enhance this rich legacy of achievement over the coming years.

Some months ago, the Minister rose to give his first budget as Minister for Finance. By the time he sat down, the downcast faces in the benches opposite spoke volumes that the Government had again got it right and was determined to ring fence and protect the growing strength of the Irish economy, while at the same time targeting resources at those who were most in need.

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