Paul Bradford (Independent) | Oireachtas source

Will the Leader agree to make arrangements after the summer recess for a pre-budget debate with the Minister for Finance? I heard part of the Minister's interview this morning on Newstalk in which he indicated his proposals to cut the universal social charge by at least one percentage point in the forthcoming budget. It would be helpful if Members of this House who have suggestions to make, particularly on taxation and spending, could play a part in the process in the lead-in to the budget rather than being left to complain after it is passed. As soon as we are back in September, it would be useful to debate the budgetary options facing the Minister and the Government. There was an interesting discussion this morning between Senators Mary White and Aideen Hayden on the inheritance tax issue which is very relevant, particularly for people in urban areas. All of these matters need to be discussed. Money will not be found to solve all of the problems we face; it is a question of considering the political, economic and financial choices to be made. Traditionally, the budget is announced and the analysis of its provisions takes place when it is much too late to do anything about them.I believe we should have an opportunity to make suggestions and put ideas forward before the budget. We could even sit a day earlier in September to have that debate with the Minister for Finance or the Minister of State at the Department of Finance. It would be useful. Perhaps the Leader would reflect on that.