Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Obviously, the budget has dominated the Order of Business. I listened to the entire debate on the budget and sat in for the last 45 minutes. There were two more speakers offering at that stage who did not get in. In saying that, we have had pre-budget debates which we have not had in previous years. No less time than ever has been allowed this year on statements on the budget but I am sure we will have ample opportunity to discuss the various aspects of the budget in the next few weeks.

The Leader of the Opposition specifically mentioned the respite grant being reduced to ¤13.75. Unfortunately it had to be reduced to the 2006 level in the boom years. However, carer's benefit has not been affected. Carer's can have their social welfare payment in addition to half the carer's allowance. There are many areas that have not been affected. Every government would like to say there would no cuts. We are not living in the boom years when Fianna Fáil was in office when all the money was squandered.