Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

What the Deputy is asking for is the outcome of Estimates discussions which are ongoing. I explained for illustration purposes the composition of public expenditure in terms of three broad headings. I have indicated to the Deputy that it is not possible to deal with the scale of the problem we face by regarding any aspect of that expenditure as immune from consideration for cuts. I have stated this clearly. While that is not the position the Deputy is prepared to take, it is the position I am taking. Every area of expenditure will have to make a contribution towards the solution to this problem. It is not a position-----

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