The Taoiseach promised to open up the budgetary process in order that there would be greater transparency regarding the options open to the Government in respect of balancing the books, as well as to allow for discussion and consideration of the various options available before any decisions were taken. What, if anything, is the Taoiseach doing about delivering on that commitment?

I can tell Deputy Shortall that a number of Oireachtas committees have already discussed the options, ideas and proposals for various Departments and Ministers, as Deputies are entitled to do. This is part of the process of opening up the manner in which budgets are dealt with and delivered here, as the Deputy herself is well aware.