Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)

I do not want any misunderstanding in regard to what I am saying, namely, that the figures I have given are those provided to my predecessor in advance of preparation of the budget. The 2011 budget is built on an estimated economic growth of 1.7%. I am pointing out there are variations between respected agencies in relation to the growth figure. I am also saying that I fully accept that the figures I have given are those which are acceptable across Departments, in particular the Department of Finance, as we speak. However, as the year goes on these figures will be revised. I am not resiling from the figures but am simply pointing out that the Government has not changed its position on some whim and continues to work on the Department of Finance figures. That is the only way we can work.

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