Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)

Unfortunately, the way the Deputy asked the question means that a simple aggregate figure has not been provided. Our trade surplus with the UK increased from €2.8 billion to €3 billion from 2009 to 2010. Our trade surplus with the BRIC countries increased from €1.99 billion to €2.7 billion over the same period. Our trade surplus with the EU decreased slightly from €26.5 billion to €25.5 billion over that period. Our trade surplus with the rest of the world increased substantially from €1.8 billion to €7.8 billion over that time. I do not have an aggregate figure. The trends are healthy. Overall, we will have a balance of payments surplus. As a nation, we will be paying back our indebtedness. Of course there are different views about the projected levels of growth that will be necessary if the budgetary targets are to be delivered. Although the troika is expecting a downgrading of growth figures in the wake of its recent visit, it is confident that the Irish fiscal plan is set to meet the target that has been set for it. These matters will be monitored carefully by the Minister for Finance. It is not an issue for me directly.

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