Mattie McGrath (Tipperary South, Independent)

I am delighted to have the opportunity to speak to the Bill. Following on from what previous speakers said, this is a totally regressive budget which will drive jobs out of the country. There is nothing more certain than this.

I refer to small businesses. The whopping 45% cut in the redundancy payments rebate is unbelievable. I have been in that position and availed of the scheme when things got slack. The Minister is right to go after the large multinationals which run off after they have availed of the tax exemptions. However, this measure will prove detrimental to small businesses.

The fuel allowance is to be cut by €120. How does the Minister expect elderly people or anybody else for that matter in receipt of fuel allowance to manage? Are we going to have sunshine after all the doom and gloom? Are we going to have shorter winters? This is despicable.

I listened to the Minister speak after the announcement of last year's budget and for four years at the committee and there has been a turnaround. On what planet has she been put? Fine Gael put her in this position. It made sure she was given the Department of Social Protection to silence her. Not only has she become silent, she has also become invisible. I have been in the Chamber for most of the morning and she has not appeared.

When those opposite go home and attend their clinics this weekend-----

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