PRESS RELEASE

BUDGET 2005

Fianna Fáil's Cork North Central Deputy Billy Kelleher has come out strongly in favour of the Minister for Finance's first budget.

“I feel that today's budget has been a balanced one and I am particularly delighted with a number of the Minister's announcements such as those on the minimum wage are expected to be outside the tax bands. This measure has to be warmly welcomed.”

“As regards the Social Welfare increases they fall well within those sought by concerned groups. I would like to commend the Minister for his increase in the Care Grant to €1,000 per annum in recognition of the needs of carers.”

“On the housing front I am delighted by the announcement regarding first time buyers exemption to stamp duty on second hand houses to the value of €317,500. There can be no doubt that this will greatly ease the pressure on first time buyers.”

“Along with the Minister's funding for disability services it is clearly evident that he has met with the Governments commitment to Social Inclusion.”