Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

Based on the figures in the four year plan produced last year, the Taoiseach made a number of very clear and specific promises to the people. Before, during and after the general election, he stated there would be no further cuts to welfare rates and pensions and no increases in income tax. The programme for Government states: "The new Government will...maintain the current rates of income tax together with bands and credits." However, the Minister for Finance, Deputy Michael Noonan, stated in early June: "I am not going to rule out any tax initiative or any tax increase or any tax reduction". Seven days later, marking the Government's 100th day in office, the Taoiseach categorically ruled this out by stating there would not be any income tax increase in the budget. The Tánaiste, Deputy Eamon Gilmore, went further and stated the Government would maintain social welfare rates. The Minister for Finance now says the public finances are "better than on track". No more money is available than there was when the Taoiseach specifically promised there would be no more cuts in welfare rates or increases in income tax. When the Taoiseach launched his programme for Government he made a commitment to be open and truthful with the people as we tackle these challenges in the coming years. Is the Taoiseach in a position today to give a clear commitment that there will be no cuts in the rates of social welfare or pensions, and no increases in income tax next year?

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