Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

To follow up on the matter Deputy Gilmore raised, yesterday's figures prove beyond doubt that the people backed the wrong horse in the election last year. The people were told by the previous Minister for Finance that they should not believe the economic reality put forward by Fine Gael and the Labour Party in our pre-election projections. We now have the evidence of yesterday's tax returns to show that this country is facing very serious economic challenges, something that was pointed out repeatedly by Opposition spokespersons. The consumer is being fleeced by diesel, petrol and home heating oil prices. Everybody, including fishermen and business people, is confronted every day by the reality of rising prices, stagnant incomes and difficulties with mortgage repayments, and this is being ignored by the Government.

The Tánaiste, in reply to Deputy Gilmore, said there are no plans to discuss the financial difficulties the country faces between 17 June and 3 July. However, we will insist on having a proper debate on a pre-budget outlook before the House rises in July.

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