Seán Ardagh (Dublin South Central, Fianna Fail)

The pre-budget outlook sets the scene and provides context for the discussions of the next month. I am proud to be a member of the Fianna Fáil Party that has guided the economic ship over the past ten years to its current, healthy state. This is one of the best economies in Europe, if not the world. I congratulate the Taoiseach on his ten years in charge, along with Charlie McCreevy on his tenure as Minister for Finance and the current Minister, Deputy Cowen. The latter is particularly suited to today's times when there are challenges in the economy. He is ready to adapt himself to changing circumstances. The unified budget, whereby all capital and current spending and revenue projections for next year will be dealt with in one day, will bring the buzz back into the budget. This will create more suspense and greater excitement and entertainment on 5 December.

See this speech in context