Vol. 557 No. 1
117 Ms O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Finance the projected end of year budget deficit or surplus based on the latest information available to his Department; the way in which this compares with the figure forecast in the last budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21293/02]
Based on the figures to the end of the third quarter published in the Exchequer returns on 2 October 2002, it was estimated that an Exchequer deficit in the order of €750 million will arise in 2002. Budget 2002 forecast an Exchequer surplus of €170 million.
The lower forecast outturn is mainly due to a shortfall of €1,300 million in tax receipts. This is partly offset by other factors, including a reduction of €280 million in our EU budget contribution, additional receipts from the Central Bank, receipts from the sale of ACC bank and the proceeds of the sale of third generation mobile phone licences.
