Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

Deputy Higgins is correct that Northern Ireland has a high proportion of workers in the public sector. On the evening I was there to meet the First Minister, Mr. Peter Robinson, MLA, and the Deputy First Minister, Mr. Martin McGuinness, MLA, in Stormont Castle the Northern Ireland Assembly had approved its fiscal programme for the next period and had published it that day. That is its response and deliberation on how it sees Northern Ireland developing. A degree of confidence was expressed by both Ministers in regard to business and the economy in general, although it is challenging. Part of their analysis and discussion centres around consideration being given to the possibility of a reduction in the corporate tax rate to make it more equivalent to the rate here in the context of the island economy. However, that is a matter for themselves and the Chancellor of the Exchequer and it would have to take into account compensatory measures.

For many years and for a variety of reasons Northern Ireland has had serious budget deficits and both Ministers, the Assembly and the Executive are well aware of the challenge they face. Cutbacks in any location or sector are difficult at any time, but it is a matter for the Assembly to make decisions about reducing its cost base, increasing competitiveness and taking the opportunity to grow jobs and increase employment in Northern Ireland. Yes, the number of public sector workers was extraordinarily high in the past and that is now being addressed in the fiscal programme agreed and published by the Assembly.

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