andDr. O'Connell asked the Minister for Finance whether he intends to revise the economic assessments to 1972 as published by the Government in the Third Programme— Economic and Social Development 1969-72.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Revision of Economic Assessments.
23.
Certain of the assumptions underlying the economic assessments contained in the Third Programme have been invalidated in the period 1969-70. As a result the particular pattern and rates of growth foreseen in the programme were not fully realised in that period. The implications of this for economic policy are being considered as part of the current review of the programme, which will be published before the Budget.
Would the Minister agree that, after three such programmes, there are now 70,000 unemployed? In my constituency six factories have closed in the last four months. Would the Minister agree now that the Third Programme has been a failure?
I would not. The implication in the Deputy's question is that all the programmes have been a failure. On the contrary, in so far as such programmes can contribute to economic growth, the results have been very satisfactory on the whole.
The results have certainly been spectacular!
Would the Minister not agree that the Third Programme has been a failure?
It has not been as successful as the others.