David Norris (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister of State to the House. There unquestionably are some positive measures in this budget, which I welcome. If one accepts the intellectual parameters within which the Minister, Deputy Noonan, and the Minister of State are working, then they have done everything right and everything is on target. I do not accept them but that is another day's argument. I believe the entire financial system should be pulled to pieces and rebuilt from top to bottom. There is nothing much about university funding although there has been a steady and consistent drop in the universities' positions in the international rankings and something should be done in this regard. As the 0.7% overseas development aid target falls into line with the economy, if we can afford 0.7% at any time, we can afford it. However, provision in this regard has dropped consistently in recent years and should be retained. What about the Aer Lingus pensioners and the cut of 60%, which is unimaginable? People are coming from an expectation of €25,000 down €10,000. How will they live within their expectations?

I am glad the 9% VAT rate in restaurants was kept as that is a good thing. I also am also pleased the living city initiative is being progressed. I spoke passionately about this issue and I hope that North Great George's Street is included. One of my neighbours went bankrupt and lost her house as a result of over-enthusiastic restoration. I have also received an e-mail from a correspondent in County Laois who is a nurse. She was obliged to give up nursing to look after three small girls, one of whom has severe special needs. She now has developed ovarian cancer, is being investigated by the Department of Social Protection and her benefits have been cut. She has been investigated like a criminal, they have been cut and the family is living on €159 per week. This is not something on which we can congratulate ourselves.