Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have already answered Deputy Howlin's question but I am happy to repeat my answer, namely, that I will be reviewing the Estimates published for 2016 in light of where we stand now and will bring a recommendation to Government in that regard. As soon as I have Government support and agreement on the Estimates for this year, I will bring them before the Dáil. I am also conscious that given where we are in the year and the need for the Estimates to be passed, it is important we do this sooner rather than later, particularly before we move into the budget process for 2017.

In regard to the costings for the overall programme, I have already provided the House with the cost of the total programme, €6.75 billion. It appears I cannot win with Sinn Féin. On one hand, it accuses me of spending too much on programmes it believes will not make any difference while on the other, it accuses me of not spending enough. It is a political choice to respond to demographics. It is what needs to be done but it requires spending taxpayers' money. There is nothing automatic about that choice; it requires the decision of Government.

As the Estimates are made available on a year-by-year basis to deliver the programme for Government, I must bring them to the House. I will do that and aim to do that with the 2016 Estimates very soon.

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