Eugene Murphy (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I support the Order of Business as outlined by the Deputy Leader. The big topic is our finances. We see there may be a surplus of €12 billion. It is worth noting that if we were to take away the corporation tax, things would not be as bright. As long as it lasts and as long as we are aware it might not always be there in such great strength, we have to be cautious. That is why I believe the Ministers, Deputies McGrath and Donohoe, were right yesterday to urge caution on spending. There is no doubt that if there is more money, those who need support and help should get it. If there is more money needed for housing, yes. It does not seem to be an issue of money. We have the biggest budget ever. If it is needed, absolutely, yes. As Senator Kyne has said, there are many other areas such as local authorities and so on that need funding. We must be careful as we go forward.

I would also say that colleagues who were staunch critics of our reception for President Biden last week should take note of the fact that we have a huge corporation interest from America, as we have Irish firms now in America employing more than 100,000 people in the USA. That is very important. We cannot do anything unless we have the money. We have the money now but we must be careful how we deal with it. We must definitely look after those who need support and assistance.Our parties will be making their points to the Ministers about where funding and assistance are needed. I welcome the fact that both Ministers have said we must be careful as we plan for the future. The future will be bright if the planning of our economy continues as it is. Not everything is perfect. I accept that. Not everything is right. We need to improve those things. However, we had many years of bleak financial records and little money was available to do much at all. We cannot splash out money for every little thing. As I said before - I know I am repeating myself - it is important that those who need support and help are looked after.

One of the best things we could do would be to further invest in, especially smaller, businesses and giving people the option to go into business. Irish people are entrepreneurial. Sometimes the State puts obstacles in their way. Obstacles should be removed so we can encourage more people to go into business. It is not for everyone but if people have the proper financial supports they will do so. All in all, it is a good day, but careful planning for the future is extremely important.