Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)

The budget does not tackle any of these areas and may even result in an increase in rates because it cuts the local government fund by 13%. Does the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment have a strategy for the retail sector to ensure many thousands of jobs are not lost? As Deputies are aware, many businesses in our towns, from Navan to Cork, will close after Christmas because they cannot compete. The solution lies in the hands of the Government. The reduction in VAT is only a small step in the right direction. We must do much more and the Finance Bill provides an opportunity to do it. The Tánaiste also has an opportunity to outline her plans for the retail sector when she contributes to the debate later in the week.

See this speech in context