Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The important point is that it will now have to be adapted to the new circumstances in which we find ourselves.

Regarding the Commission on Taxation, which has been mentioned, the Minister for Finance has already indicated in last night's debate that he expected that it will be brought forward in the late summer. I can make the point here that, clearly, whatever taxation decisions are to be taken in the immediate period ahead, there will be a further consideration of taxation policy arising out of that commission report when it comes before us. The chairman will be in a position to update the Minister verbally in terms of where issues are at the moment.

There is important and comprehensive work being done on a range of areas. It will have a major input into the consideration of tax policy for 2010, 2011, 2012 and on. It does not in any way mitigate against the need to take decisions now regarding the immediate emerging position for this year. The Commission on Taxation will have an important strategic view to put forward in the context of taxation policy.

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