Pearse Doherty (Donegal South West, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

My question is broadly similar to the last one as it refers to a progressive budget for 2015 and relates to the definition of a "neutral budget". There has been much talk of political reform and stroke politics in recent weeks, but the manner in which the budget is being prepared is not good enough. Arming the Opposition with information in order that alternatives can be provided is simply not good enough. Deputy Michael McGrath and I have had to use Priority Questions to elicit information, but we have not received further clarity. The Minister has said a neutral budget means no change in policy, but policy announcements have been made. For example, the student contribution has been raised by €250 to €3,000 this year. Is this included in the arithmetic for a neutral budget as it is now policy? Can it be pulled back? Other measures such those involving capitation cuts and lone parents have already been announced. Are these measures needed to allow for a neutral budget?

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