Olwyn Enright (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 99: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he has had reason to modify his economic or public finance projections for 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2118/08]

Bernard Durkan (Kildare North, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 260: To ask the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he is satisfied that the economic indicators to date in 2008 are in accord with the projections at the time of Budget 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2753/08]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context

I propose to take Questions Nos. 99 and 260 together.

Reflecting a number of domestic and international factors, a moderation in the rate of economic growth, with consequent implications for the public finances, was projected on Budget Day for 2008. Importantly, I also highlighted a number of key downside risks facing the economy. While there is evidence to suggest that some of these risks may be materialising, other developments such as continued strong services export growth are more favourable. Therefore, I see no reason for the economic or fiscal projections of my Department to be modified atthis stage. My Department, as always, will of course, continue to monitor emerging developments.