Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

In the context of the current economic challenges, as the Taoiseach referred to it, discussed at the recent EU Council meeting, he indicated in his reply that the detail of the budget is not what will be submitted for so-called scrutiny and peer review, as has been indicated theretofore. What extent of the budgetary intentions and detailed information concerning budget 2011 must be submitted by the Government to Brussels in advance? Can he give the House some sense or understanding of that? Will that apply to the current year? Has information been provided? Will more information be provided in advance of the representatives of the Irish people, the Members of this House, having the opportunity to learn the Government's intentions regarding budget 2011? How does the Taoiseach reconcile that arrangement with, say, the pillars of democracy and national sovereignty? It strikes me as strange and challenges my understanding of these important tenets. Where is this at? What level of information must be provided? When is it to be provided? Will he comment further specifically on the provision of budgetary information to Brussels?

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