Dublin South West TD, Se\u00e1n Crowe, has described this year\u2019s forthcoming Budget as probably the most important in recent years and Crowe is calling for an increase in public investment. He said that due to years of austerity, and with the uncertainty that Brexit has now brought, that Ireland is clearly at a crossroads, and we can go forward from here or get dragged back.<\/p>\n
The Sinn F\u00e9in TD was speaking after meeting members of the South Dublin Chamber of Commerce along with his party colleague, Eoin \u00d3 Broin TD, in the Red Cow Moran Hotel.<\/p>\n
Deputy Se\u00e1n Crowe said:<\/p>\n
\u201cIreland is clearly at a crossroads- we can go forward or back.\u00a0 We need serious capital investment, but worryingly the minority Fine Gael\/Independent government appears committed to cuts in taxes, as well as the further privatisation and downgrading of essential services.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe current level of public investment is simply too low to provide for services and infrastructure that is so desperately needed by our citizens, and to ensure that we build an inclusive society.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe continued lack of public investment by consecutive Government\u2019s has created crises and shortages in our health and education services, in housing and transport, and in childcare provision.<\/p>\n
“The need for public investment has been highlighted by groups and organisations as diverse as IBEC, ESRI, NERI, TASC, the EU Commission, the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council and Social Justice Ireland.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe know that Brexit, and the uncertainty that it has created, could potentially have a disastrous impact on Ireland\u2019s economy or recovery, and it could reinforce partition and create further division. It is clear that we need new ideas and new approaches.<\/p>\n
“Sinn F\u00e9in is committed to a sustainable capital investment programme, one that sees housing, health, education, childcare provision, and transport, as essential social and economic pillars. Our small and medium businesses need greater supports and access to finances. The need for real and sustainable jobs demands a new approach.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur plan would bring public investment to 2.5% of Gross National Product in 2017. This is the base from which to rebuild our society after the devastation of Fianna F\u00e1il\u2019s bank bailout and the years of Fine Gael and Labour\u2019s austerity.<\/p>\n
“Our plan is fully costed, fully achievable, and will grow our economy as we move forward.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe shape and direction of Budget 2017 is probably the most important decision\u00a0that TDs will be asked to make in recent years. Ireland is clearly at a crossroads where we can go forward or get dragged back to more austerity and shortages.<\/p>\n
\u201cSinn F\u00e9in’s proposals will move Ireland forward and rebuild our broken health and public services.\u201d<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
ENDS<\/p>\n
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