Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The one thing we can all say is that the decisions that must be taken will be difficult. There are no easy options here. In fact, we have seen a deterioration taking place as the year has progressed, which has mirrored what is happening in the international economy. Whatever about people's ideas on reforms of budgetary processes for the future, a supplementary budget must be brought into this House in early April. The Cabinet met this morning and we intend bringing that budget before the House on 7 April. That will enable Members to debate the budget on that Tuesday and the following Wednesday and Thursday. Perhaps we should come back a week earlier than suggested so instead of returning on 28 April, we should come back on 22 April and resume the debate.

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