Marc MacSharry (Fianna Fail)

This is in the best interests of our economy and our people. It is not just in the interests of the banks.

The next two weeks, as we prepare for the budget on 14 October, may be the most important two weeks in our modern history. Given our changed economic circumstances, we must cut out all the fat — anything that has been allowed to develop — across all Departments, State agencies and areas under State control. All fat must be ruthlessly cut out. We must try to maximise income from all quarters during the next period without, if possible, increasing personal taxation. We must look after the most vulnerable, in the tradition of Fianna Fáil in government, and ensure that in these more difficult days, with high commodity prices internationally, we look after those who are most in need.