Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

A debate in this House has become a regular part of budget day each year. I thank the Independent Senators for tabling this motion which provides Members with an opportunity to comment on the budget. It also allows the Government to hear those views and, at the same time, to put on record the objectives which underpin budget 2004 and the measures that will deliver them.

I begin by reminding the House of the core objectives the Government and the Minister for Finance, Deputy McCreevy, set out today. We want to continue to foster employment and growth, to maintain our prudent approach to the public finances, to invest more in infrastructure and to keep inflation low, thereby securing Ireland's competitiveness, and in this way secure the resources needed to achieve social inclusion. We have made progress in all these areas, which is evident for all to see.