Go raibh maith agat, a Leas-Cheann Comhairle.

[Translation: Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker.]

My thanks to the Members, Chairs and Deputy Chairs who contributed to the Second Stage of the Budget (No. 2) Bill. As Finance Minister, it is always useful to hear the views of the respective Committees and Members on the important financial and economic issues that face us as an Administration. I noted many of the issues raised by Members and will endeavour to respond to as many as I can.

Mr O'Toole, leader of the Opposition, raised a number of issues, including some relating to June monitoring. To avoid any doubt, I clarify that the allocations agreed in June monitoring are not included in the Budget (No. 2) Bill that we are debating. As usual, they will be reflected in the Supplementary Estimates later in the year. As I made clear yesterday, having considered the guidance, my view and that of the Department is that June monitoring is normal and routine business of the Executive. Given the financial pressures facing Departments, it was essential to provide clarity on any additional funding as soon as possible. Therefore, I am content that it does not breach the pre-election guidance and that the impartiality of civil servants has not been compromised.

Mr O'Toole mentioned running out of money being used as a reason for the monitoring round proceeding. While the potential of Departments exhausting their cash limits is a real and valid reason for the urgency surrounding a Budget Bill, it is not the reason for the monitoring round. The monitoring round was required to give Departments certainty on the funding available to allow them to plan effectively and avoid unnecessarily harsh decisions being taken.