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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 28 Jun 1995

Vol. 455 No. 2

Written Answers. - Autumn budget.

Ben Briscoe

Ceist:

66 Mr. Briscoe asked the Minister for Finance if he intends to introduce an autumn budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11116/95]

I assume that the Deputy has in mind the bringing forward of the annual budget to the autumn of each year.

As indicated in my response to a written question put down by Deputy Liam Burke for answer on Tuesday, 13 June last, the preparation of the 1996 budget is proceeding on the normal schedule, under which the Financial Statement is presented on the final Wednesday of January. In accordance with established practice, the precise date of the 1996 budget will be announced in this House on the last sitting day before the Christmas recess.

I am aware that the presentation of the budget prior to the year to which it refers offers certain theoretical advantages. However, such a change would require careful planning of what would be a significant adjustment of the existing budgetary timetable.

I would add that the present arrangements, which minimise the uncertainties inherent in an autumn projection of the current-year's fiscal outturn and the budget-year's economic outlook, have served the nation well. Indeed, Deputies will be aware that for the second consecutive year, Ireland remains in the very small minority of EU member states which currently satisfy the Masstricht Treaty's fiscal convergence criteria.

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