Éamon Ó Cuív (Galway West, Fianna Fail)

I am delighted the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputy Brendan Howlin, and the Minister for Finance, Deputy Michael Noonan, are taking Leaders' Questions. I note yesterday the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council recommended an adjustment of €4 billion in the budget. Following the general election and with full knowledge of the challenges ahead for the country, the Taoiseach pledged not to increase income tax rates or bands and the Tánaiste promised there would be no cuts to social welfare. After 100 days in office these promises were reiterated. Shortly afterwards the Minister, Deputy Noonan, said he would not rule out tax increases or social welfare reductions. It is now 119 days since that promise. Will the Government take on board the recommendations of the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council or reject its advice?

When the Taoiseach came into government he said he would enter a new covenant with the people to tell them the truth no matter how painful and difficult it might be.

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