Mary Lou McDonald (Dublin Central, Sinn Fein)

The Minister set out what he sees as the logic of the Minister for Finance's position. I take a contrary view; I think he was being rather deceptive in his clear articulation that there would be an easier budget after a "Yes" vote. Out of curiosity, did the Minister realise that the Minister for Finance was going to make those comments?

The target of 7.5% is contingent on a number of factors, not least growth. While we have figures and targets in the document produced by the Minister, they are a moveable feast. I appreciate that he wants a democratic debate, but for that to happen effectively we must know the precise parameters. Those of us on this side of the House must have confidence that whatever observations we make will be taken seriously and that the Minister is not simply attempting to institute a protracted process to take the heat out of what will be another very difficult budget - not difficult for the Minister, but difficult for the people on the receiving end.

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