Conor Lenihan (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

The increase we achieved this year was higher than the entire aid programme in 1995. Those opposite who seek to replace us as a Government will not be able to deliver on those increases. When in Government they did virtually nothing in this area.

As we discuss the budget, it is noticeable what are the Opposition's priorities. When given the opportunity to discuss the substantive issue of the budget and the allocation of resources, it chose instead to pander to the tawdry tabloid values and political correctness that swirls around this House.

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