Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael)

The budget changes the economic strategy of the previous Government to put a much greater focus on growth and employment. It balances the need to restore confidence in Ireland's fiscal position with the key objective of supporting economic growth that delivers jobs.

In conclusion, I would like to associate myself with the comments made by my colleague the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputy Brendan Howlin, yesterday about the late Brian Lenihan. Brian Lenihan had, as Minister for Finance, a most difficult task, which he fulfilled with great courage and dignity. Go ndéanfaidh Dia trócaire ar a anam. I commend this budget to the House.

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