Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael)

The Minister might be interested in another cut that is being made, as it is about time people like her got involved in taking public transport. The provision for provincial quality bus corridors in cities outside Dublin is being reduced by €5 million. The accessibility programme for people with disabilities is being cut by €5 million.

This is a shameful, disgraceful Government budget. Having listened to the contribution of the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, it is evident that under this budget the thumbscrews are being turned on the poor, particularly at Christmas, which is the most important time for families. By cutting the extra income they would have received in recent years, the Government is reducing the poor, the elderly, social welfare recipients and single parents to the appalling vista of probably having to beg from their family members to buy presents for their grandchildren. This is a shameful, disgraceful Government. This measure cuts to the heart of what it is at. Its members are a ruthless, cruel bunch of Ministers who could not care less about the ordinary people of this country and they deserve to be kicked out as soon as possible.

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