Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

In July, we brought forward a package of savings which will benefit the Exchequer by €1 billion in a year. As the fiscal position deteriorated over the summer, we took further action at the beginning of September by bringing forward budget day by two months.

Two weeks ago, when the stability of our banking system was in jeopardy, the Government took immediate and decisive action. The budget I put before the House today is our plan of action for economic renewal.

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