Niall Ó Brolcháin (Green Party)

I seek a debate on the world economic environment because in reading today's edition of the Financial Times it struck me that the British Government was seeking cuts of £83 billion or approximately €94 billion. It is seeking to cut approximately €1,600 per person in its next budget, whereas the Government here is seeking to cut approximately €1,000 per person in its budget, which is considerably less. However, Members will be aware of the situation in Greece and many other countries and it would be foolish of us to believe either in this Chamber or Ireland that the world economic climate does not affect us. This is a small open economy that is greatly affected by events in other countries, particularly our nearest neighbour, Britain. It is important, therefore, that Members have a proper debate on what is happening in other countries because it will greatly affect the figures in Ireland. We cannot afford to bury our heads in the sand and state everything will depend on what happens in this country. I urge the Leader to arrange a proper debate on the world economy.