Fiona O'Malley (Progressive Democrats)

——that we are not going back to the spiral of borrowing and decline that happened previously. This is a very prudent and responsible response. It is an initial response, not the end of a strategy. It is a recognition that we are not reverting to what was done during the 1970s and 1980s, which is welcome.

I do not mind using the term "cutbacks", although "adjustment" may be more accurate. The level of expected growth has changed and, therefore, midway through the financial year we have had to readjust issues because that money is not there. It is simply not possible to spend money one does not have. I have learned during my time on the Government side that one must remain constant and consistent.