Neale Richmond (Dublin Rathdown, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As I mentioned at the outset, the allocations for 2024 are expected to be announced in the near future. The Senator is right that we have been very fortunate to have a record tax take in recent years, both in terms of income tax and corporate tax. However, the investment being put into infrastructure, society and preparation for the future is very clear, as is the ability to put money away because, given times of famine were referenced by the Senator, when we had a rainy day fund before, we needed it very quickly when the rain started falling. That is prudent and sensible. We will also have a strategic sovereign wealth fund whereby we will be able to invest in the future. We are one of the few European economies that has grown and is able to run at a surplus. We are investing heavily in infrastructure in terms of roads, public transport, housing and business improvements we need. I will take the points made by Senator Keogan directly to the Minister, Deputy Ryan. I have no doubt those interested will be able to elicit a more direct response from the Minister of State, Deputy Chambers, this week.