Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

I point out to the Deputy that simply achieving an off balance sheet solution or status for projects is not the main driver in our capital investment decisions. As I am often remind by Deputy Bruton, the priority must be to achieve value for money and protection for the taxpayer. That is my priority as the Minister for Finance and it is the priority of the Government. Given the difficult budgetary circumstances we face, we are mindful of the need to minimise the State's exposure to additional Exchequer borrowing. However, it cannot be at any cost.

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