Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

I have taken the lead in so far as the Department of Finance funds different branches of Government. It is very important that we ensure that the cost of government is reduced. It is also important that citizens reflect on the fact that there has been a fall in the cost of living and that the provisions in the budget will have to reflect that. Above and beyond that, I agree there are issues about charges by the State. In preparing budgets and examining departmental estimates it is essential to examine appropriations-in-aid as well as amounts taken in taxation to ensure that they are not simply used as a substitute form of taxation instead of real cost economies in the particular operation. Local authorities have an important role to play as well, and members of local authorities will have to face up to their responsibilities in their management of the authorities.

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