ESRI report highlights inclusive Budget
The latest report from the ESRI highlights a continuing policy of inclusive measures in government policy, says Billy Kelleher, Deputy Government Chief Whip
'While many have attempted to portray the budget as a u turn on the part of the government, the reality is actually very different. The ESRI estimates that for the fourth consecutive budget, those less well off have fared better th an those on higher incomes.'
'There could be no clearer rebuttal of those who have sought to portray this government as being only on the side of the rich. The evidence in this report completely destroys the arguments of those who claim that the government is willfully intent on dividing society.'
'It is also clear from the ESRI report that the Budget will have a positive impact on both consistent and relative poverty.'
As in last year's budget, the greatest gains from Budget 2005 will go to the lowest income groups. Those who look to the state for support will find that welfare payments have increased well ahead of the expected inflation rate and also well ahead of the expected rate of earnings growth.'
'No party has done more than Fianna Fáil to advance social inclusion in Ireland . Our low tax, social partnership model has been a resounding success, enabling us to double the social welfare budget as we halved unemployment. We have found the right policies and it is important that we stick with them.'
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