Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

That is true. That is the situation. If people wish to have discussions, or if spokespersons wish to meet the Minister for Finance who is charged with bringing forward the budget, that facility is available. At the end of the day we all know the responsibility for bringing forward the budget lies with the Government. The House will have a pre-budget debate today and Members can put forward constructive proposals if they wish and we will listen attentively to them.

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