John Minihan (Progressive Democrats)

I move: "That Seanad Éireann notes the Minister for Finance's Budgetary Statement."

Budget 2003 paves the way for continued economic success. It is a prudent and cautious budget, which encapsulates the best thinking of the two parties that contributed to its formulation. It is a good budget for the country by several different measures. It sets out to deliver another strong surplus on the current account. This shows that the State's finances are in very good order and that in terms of day to day spending we are managing our affairs very well.