Tommy Broughan (Dublin Bay North, Independent) | Oireachtas source

When I look at the NTMA figures, I note the bond component is steadily growing. Does that include the bonds to which the Minister refers, such that that aspect of national debt is increasing but in a safe manner? The concern raised by a number of academics and others over the years was that general interest rates would change and we could be left in a difficult situation. The Minister will agree that the €42,000 of debt per man, woman and child, which he quoted in the budget, remains a dire burden for our country.

How will the rainy day fund operate in the context of gross and net debt? Will that be deducted and taken into account when quantifying the net debt, or does it stand alone?

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