Statements on Finance
06 October 2011
Statements on Finance
Thursday, 6 October 2011
Senator Ivana Bacik: I welcome the Minister to the House and thank him for his comprehensive response to the questions and statements of spokespersons. They covered a wide range of topics. I also thank the Minister for clarifying that information on the National Asset Management Agency, NAMA, will be made available to Members. I do not know whether all colleagues were aware that there would be a hotline, as it were, to NAMA.
The report of the new fiscal council is due in October. Will it be available for Senators to debate in the House? The Minister might have stated it would be, but I am seeking clarification. It is important that information be made available before budget day so that people are not taken by surprise.
I have spoken with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Deputy Howlin, about a Tobin tax on international financial transactions. What is the State's view on such a tax? It has always appeared to be a commendable idea, but it is difficult in practice, particularly where there is a large financial services industry. There have been moves at EU level to progress the concept of an international tax. What is the Minister's opinion and what view will Ireland take if this matter arises at EU level?