Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

We have to recognise that everything is linked and interdependent. We cannot bring order to our public finances unless we continue with the fiscal consolidation strategy we have only begun. We have said clearly that the €2 billion that was required, which is consistent with the framework agreed with the social partners, was a necessary first step in terms of its benefits and the message it sent internationally.

The answer to the Deputy's question is simple. The Government brought forward measures to control spending last year and keep it within the 2008 allocations. We also brought forward an early budget to show the seriousness of our intent and raised €2 billion in 2009 terms as a result of these budgetary measures. We have brought serious control into the public finance position in terms of the rate of growth of public expenditure.

As outlined, the Government also brought forward a €2 billion programme in the first two months of this year. This is being discussed in the legislation before the House this week as a necessary first step in a range of measures designed to bring stabilisation to our public finances over the coming years. That is our position and we will have to continue to assess and take decisions in line with those measures on an ongoing basis because we know the situation is not static.

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