Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Last year we had the same thing; every year I have been in the House there has been the same speculation during the preparation of a budget. It is part of the normal discourse that takes place. It is the responsibility of the Government to see to it that those who are most vulnerable in society are protected. It is clear that child benefit is of importance to this category. In recent days I have heard people state child benefit is of no particular interest to them. Deputy McGrath mentioned one individual who, at least, makes a very substantial contribution through his taxes to the country, for which I respect him and also for what he does.

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