Dan Boyle (Green Party)

We will have an opportunity to debate the budget later. Buoyancy and competitive tendering have already been factored in to the figures presented to the Oireachtas for decision, so it is not being honest to those we represent to say otherwise. We will not avoid difficult decisions in this or subsequent budgets. It is not as if anyone wants to make these decisions, but it is the Government's responsibility to ensure we have, or are working towards, a balanced budget in the coming years. Every effort was made to do so in yesterday's Budget Statement, particularly in areas such as child benefit where those on social welfare and family income supplement will continue to receive the same level of support. Pensioners have been protected also. The level of cuts has been minimised.

I support what Senator Fitzgerald said about No. 1 on today's Order Paper. We do have a busy agenda up to the Christmas recess. We must discuss the report on how national parliaments should interact with the European Parliament. That is central to how this House should regard the reform of its own activities. I ask that such a debate be held as soon as possible.