Jim Walsh (Fianna Fail)

I thank Senator Brady for sharing his time. This is a good budget which has been acknowledged by commentators on the national airwaves who usually would not be that sympathetic to the Government. I am glad it reflected the republican ethos of our party. That has been illustrated by the redistributive aspects in that the tax bands have been widened and, as other Senators have acknowledged, those on the minimum wage have been excluded from any taxation, which is a very welcome development. First-time buyers will no longer have to pay stamp duty on second-hand houses, which is welcome, as are the extra provisions for the disabled, particularly for those with intellectual disability. The increase in the old age pension brings it close to the target in the programme for Government of €200 per week. I welcome the increases in child benefit while acknowledging that more needs to be done in the child care area. The budget heralds the continuation of the maintenance of the strong economic progress under the stewardship of DeputyCharlie McCreevy from 1997 to 2004.

On the macro issues, it is good to see the convergence of the growth rates predicted for GNP and GDP, as stated by Senator Dardis. That is welcome because it shows the domestic economy is contributing well to the growth in the economy. Inflation has been maintained at 2.4%, which is welcome, as is the unemployment rate of 4.4%.

In regard to unemployment, there are regional disparities. I know the 35,000 which have been created is very welcome but coming from the constituency of Wexford, there is a need for greater emphasis on economic and unemployment blackspots. Being excluded from the BMW region is disadvantageous to Wexford. I would like that disparity to be addressed.