This budget is the first instalment of the national recovery plan. The plan plots a course to sustainability for our country: sustainable public finances, sustainable public services, sustainable growth and sustainable employment. It is a sensible, rational plan that is proportionate and equitable in the circumstances in which we find ourselves. Everybody pays and those who can pay most will pay most. The plan calls on us all to take more responsibility for ourselves, to contribute to the support of local services and to pay more towards the support of college education. This budget is not captured by any sectional interest. The focus in the distribution of the tax burden, in the reductions in public spending and in the reforms it introduces, is the common good.

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