Charlie McCreevy (Kildare North, Fianna Fail)

I have gone more than half way. The increase of the first year was followed by the same increase in the following two years in which it did not attract the same attention. The figure for the single standard rate band – the more appropriate term – is €29,000.

We have discussed the history and the furore on many occasions but it was not individualisation. It is probably better not to use that term. Individualisation means dividing everything, band, rates etc. This is the reason we have a standard rate band. The standard rate band for a single person is €29,000 and for a married couple, with one income, it is €37,000. I have gone up to that level but been unable to do anything in this year's budget to move it forward. It is still the goal of our policy and the agreed goal of the social partners to have a single standard rate band. The debate has moved on.