John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

A key point which has been yet again overlooked by the Opposition is the fact that gross current spending will rise by 8.7%, or an extra €3 billion, for public services. Evidently, that is of no interest. My party's manifesto, Managing the Economy, clearly stated the principle that there must be no borrowing to fund current spending, that the general Government balance – in line with our EU obligations – should be kept in or near surplus and that growth in Government spending should be kept in line with growth in revenue. I am confident the budget will fulfil those requirements. I compliment the Minister of State, Deputy Parlon, for his input to the budget in terms of ensuring that those principles were adhered to.