Timmy Dooley (Clare, Fianna Fail)

We are a small economy on the hind teat of Europe. Unfortunately, economic pressures probably affect us more quickly than France, Britain and Germany which have populations of 50 million to 60 million. It took them much longer to get the type of growth rates from which we benefited. Clearly, we will experience the downturn more quickly because of the size of our population.

Certain people in the Opposition put forward the notion that we should spend more, that this budget was measly and mean-spirited and that we should have taxed less and cut nothing. Some people have the luxury to do that but, unfortunately, the Cabinet does not have that luxury. There is a body of people looking to the Government to provide stability and an economic framework through which we can return to the kind of economic growth that will assist us in providing employment and a quality of life for future generations. Notwithstanding the difficulties that have arisen in the budget, the broad budgetary framework exists to support that approach. Some commentators suggest it may take longer to get back on track than originally expected, but we will get back on track.

I recognise the important measures proposed in the budget, particularly from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in terms of the investment in our water services to ensure the quality of drinking water. This measure is particularly helpful in my constituency for sewerage schemes in places such as Broadford, Clonlara, Curraclare and Labasheeda. Also, in light of much of the negative comment that has been made about the Department of Health and Children, the Minister has confirmed since the budget that the Ennis hospital upgrade will go ahead this year. That demonstrates the commitment to providing for the health care needs of the people I represent.

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