Government figures don’t add up – Crowe
Dublin South West Sinn Féin TD Seán Crowe has described as ‘deeply embarrassing and a cause for concern’ yesterday’s announcement that the general government debt is €3.6bn lower than originally estimated.
Deputy Crowe said:
“Yesterday’s news that the government debt is €3.6bn lower than originally estimated is deeply embarrassing for the government and the officials involved in this miscalculation.
“The explanation that an ‘accounting error’ of this size went unnoticed for so long is truly shocking.
“Yet despite the fact their figures didn’t add up, the government were very slow to respond to the news.
“Clearly, on the basis of this information, the government no longer needs to cut €3.6 billion in the budget to meet next year’s 8.6% deficit target that has been set by the EU/IMF.
“I am calling on the Taoiseach Enda Kenny to make a statement on the matter explaining how, if at all, this week’s news changes his government’s approach to December’s budget.
The Government should also consider using some of this additional windfall for a jobs stimulus package that would help alleviate the difficulties facing tens of thousands of famiilies and individuals across the state.” CRÍOCH