Noel O'Donovan (Fine Gael)

I want to speak briefly on two aspects of the budget. As a newbie Senator, this is the first opportunity I have had to witness and see how the budgetary process works. As a member of a party that is in government, I also had an opportunity to see how the issues we raised formed part of the budgetary process.

Regarding the 9% VAT rate, I put on record the appreciation of the many businesses in west Cork that sought a reduction in VAT and contacted me in recent days. I thank them for their work in campaigning for it. I also want to call out the hypocrisy I see from some Opposition parties that are now opposing this, rejecting it and not supporting the 9% VAT rate that has been introduced. As has rightly been said, these businesses in our communities are not just coffee shops and restaurants; they are the hubs of our communities. They are busy businesses. I have seen the books of many of these businesses. They are struggling with costs and the increased cost of doing business. This is a measure that will ensure stability and sustainability in the years ahead. I call on many of the Opposition parties to look back at what was said in recent months, prior to the formation of the Government, and what their position was on the issue. I know full well the promises made by the Social Democrats, especially in west Cork, in the programme for Government and the calls that were made. Members should look back at what was said.

Like all Members, disability is an area I am very passionate about. We have a respite crisis in this country. I am delighted to welcome the additional €600 million put into the disability budget. It is important that the Minister with responsibility for disability would come to the Chamber as soon as possible to discuss respite.