Simon Harris (Wicklow, Fine Gael)

In my new role I must be even more disciplined in commenting on various tax changes and the likes. I have been watching Paschal do this for a few years. I am committed to the programme for Government, of course, as is the Government. The sequencing and advancement of various initiatives in the programme will be a matter for individual budgets. The Deputy is entirely right: this was put into the programme for Government because of his view and the view of others on the importance of helping keep our population fit and healthy, particularly as we age. Future Forty is a great gift to all of us as policymakers across this House. It is a treasure trove of various scenarios and the like that may unfold over the time ahead and it will help us plan better. Specific timelines for specific tax measures are a matter for future budgets but we do intend to honour what is in the programme for Government.

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