Estimates for Public Services.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 3 October 2006

Tuesday, 3 October 2006

Ceisteanna (178)

Paudge Connolly

Ceist:

286 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Finance the spending constraints within which the 2007 Estimates are being formulated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [31046/06]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Finance (Mr. Cowen)

In the 2006 Budget and Stability Programme Update, I set out the Government's overall macroeconomic policy strategy for the medium term, including existing level of service gross expenditure projections for the period 2006 to 2008. These form the basis on which the Government will formulate the 2007 Estimates, taking due account of developments in the overall economy; the need to provide for the Towards 2016 Partnership Agreement and for other social priorities; and the continuing need to maintain the country's public finances within sound and sustainable parameters.