Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 12 Oct 1993

Vol. 434 No. 4

Written Answers. - Estimates for 1994: Guidelines.

Mary Harney

Question:

59 Miss Harney asked the Minister for Finance the guidelines, if any, that have been issued to Ministers on the preparation of the estimates for public expenditure for 1994; and the overall target he has in mind for Exchequer borrowing for 1994.

Minister for Finance (Mr. B. Ahern)

Guidlines for the preparation of the 1994 Estimates were issued to Departments in June last by the Department of Finance in the annual Estimates Circular. In line with the usual practice, detailed technical criteria covering all aspects of expenditure were given for Departments to follow in preparing Estimates.

I can assure the Deputy that the criteria were designed to ensure that expenditure in 1994 will be at a level which will allow the Government to meet the commitment in its programme that policy on the public finances will adhere to the requirements of the Maastricht Treaty.

On borrowing, I would refer the Deputy to theProgramme for a Partnership Government 1993-97. I can assure her that, in line with the Government's budgetary policy set out in that document, the 1994 budget will maintain.... “firm control of our public finances so that there is a steady reduction in the national debt/GDP ratio”.

As regards the specific EBR target for 1994, the Deputy will have to await the presentation of the budget to the House next January.