Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The programme for Government is predicated on the continuing balance of our public finances. I have to reiterate that time and again. Without that the prospect of providing any sustainable level of services is at risk. The Deputy does not have to consider or worry about that point since he can continue to come into the House and seek more funds for this, that and the other in every area of policy while at the same time pronouncing that he is interested in the country being run on a sound basis with public finances that equate expenditure with income. That is not possible. All the commitments to which he refers are predicated on the overriding consideration that, as resources allow, these commitments will be implemented.

Resources have increased in recent years for people with disabilities and other areas. The level of services has greatly improved. While it is true that some adjustments will have to be made this year there has been steady improvement year on year for a considerable time in a way that has greatly enhanced the experience not only of those who require those services but also of their families who support them so lovingly and with such commitment. I do not accept the criticism that Government has made no commitment in these areas. We have ensured that by pursuing policies in good times to provide resources we have allocated unprecedentedly large resources to those areas. Issues remain to be dealt with. Needs change and the need to adapt for them is a continuing discipline for those who provide services and for the Department that provides the resources for those services.

I do not accept the premise of the Deputy's question that suggests that we have shown less than full commitment to this area. We have shown a great deal of commitment to this area and will continue to do so.

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