I have said many times since the publication of the Estimates that spending must be prioritised. It is not possible to afford the same priority to each sector. The debate in the Lower House was characterised by long lists of high priority programmes which Deputies believed should be granted more resources. Constructive opposition might be expected to signal what areas of expenditure are of a lower priority. Yet no one seems prepared to propose reductions in even one specific spending programme. This Government has the courage to make difficult choices. We have decided to continue to provide substantial funding in 2003 for health, social welfare, education and transport infrastructure. Inevitably this has required a tighter approach in other areas.