Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

-----than there were last August. The rate of increase, month on month and year on year, has been decreasing considerably and that is reflecting the stabilisation in the economy we are seeing as a result of the successful implementation of the budgetary policies being pursued.

The amount of revenue we forecast for 2010 came in not only on budget but was €700 million more than expected and spending was controlled as planned. No one is suggesting that we are through the woods yet but as a result of the Government's preparedness we have demonstrated the required political capacity to make adjustments of €15 billion, all of which were rejected and opposed by Deputy Gilmore and his party.

On when the finance Bill will be enacted or the Dáil dissolved, the Deputy will of course be aware of and observe the constitutional proprieties. It is a matter which is the prerogative of the Taoiseach unless he or she loses a majority in the House. On the timetable involved, in our parliamentary schedule we set out an indicative timetable for the passing of the finance Bill, which will be passed one month sooner than it was last year. From that, the Deputy can take an indicative period beyond that when the dissolution of the Dáil will take place and an election held. I hope that covers the questions.

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