If the Minister, Deputy Cowen, takes nothing else from tonight's discussion, he can take the point that any admission by an Opposition that a budget is a non-event is a real goal for a Minister for Finance. Despite the recent downturn in the global economy, particularly the US economy, Ireland has been and will remain largely unscathed. This is due to the experience and forward planning of the Government. It is capable of taking practical steps when required.

I am thankful that the Minister is not one for knee-jerk reactions and I am confident he will see this country through the global economic difficulties. This Bill does not consist of measures to deal with an economy on the brink of economic downturn but of measures created by a forward-thinking and solid Government capable of upholding and advancing an already buoyant economy. I had prepared a ten-minute speech but due to the time restriction, I will hand over to my colleague.

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