Shane Ross (Dublin South, Independent)

Could I take it from what the Taoiseach said that although there will not be any effects in this budget, there will be tangible effects in the next budget and the following one? If that is the case, perhaps the Taoiseach could tell us where he will target those particular benefits and what area of the economy will take priority in the benefits which will come from this particular separation of the banks and the sovereign debt?

The Taoiseach did not address the issue I raised about the change in the balance of power in Europe. That is vital. Could he comment on the fact that there was undoubtedly a change when France confronted Germany, eyeballed Mrs. Merkel and won? Could he tell us what part he and this country played in that particular new division of power in Europe?

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