Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will try to keep my contribution short today. Speaking on "Morning Ireland" this morning, Professor John McHale, chairperson of the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council, in commenting on its latest report stated that any new increases in expenditure such as in public service pay would have to be offset by reductions on spending on services or increases in taxes. We have set our tax rates for the year ahead so the only result will be reductions in service levels - service levels that are already hard pressed and struggling to recover from the recession. I refer, for example, to people with disabilities, people with mental health needs, people needing supports to recover from many different addictions and their families. I have a great and immediate fear in regard to this issue. I call on the Leader to ensure an early debate on how public and social services will be protected and advanced next year rather than cut back. I am aware that Senator Dolan has spoken to the Leader earlier this morning on the issue and I look forward to hearing his response.