Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

That is not the situation. First, I understand the Minister for Finance has to attend an ECOFIN meeting on 1 and 2 December. As the Deputy will be aware, many important issues are taking place at European level. The following week is the best time to take the budget and it is the right time to take it. Second, the debate in the House will not end before or immediately after Christmas. It is a matter for the House to decide the detail in that regard. Third, it is important that there would be a good debate in the House in advance of the budget to address the issues and serious challenges that confront us as a country. For example, the publication of the pre-budget outlook could provide an opportunity for a full debate in the House in early November.

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