Broad thrust of budget in right direction– Naughten

In Business & Jobs by Denis Naughten

ATTJUCWD“Today’s budget, the first one in seven years where we can really debate how Government money is to be spent rather than looking at the real impact of cuts, needs to be acknowledged and welcomed,” said Denis Naughten.

“Budget 2016 gives a little to everybody and does provide some relief for those who pay for everything and are entitled to nothing,” he stated. “Its measures will also support business in maintaining existing jobs and creating new local jobs throughout the country.

“However, the Budget lacks imagination that could have a far greater long term impact.”

Denis Naughten added: “For example, the €10m from the sale of Bord Gais for an affordable rental housing scheme is positive, but no funds are being made available to act as seed capital to extend the gas network to towns like Carrick-on-Shannon, which would not only support regional development but help to see vacant houses, occupied.

“Also the 50c on the packet of cigarettes should have been ring-fenced for investment in long term health projects that can reduce pressure on our health system. One such proposal would be to give everybody in the country a free health check once every four years to screen for illness, particularly chronic conditions, which have such a huge financial impact on our health service when not treated early. We’ve an NCT for cars, why not for people?

“Finally, I’m a bit concerned by the detail of some of the announcements. It costs €11m to recruit, train and employ 600 Gardaí, but only €9m has been provided in the Budget. The €2m for our air ambulance service is welcome but is this new money to expand the service to a 24hr a day service or just replacing existing HSE money? Because people die at night too,” concluded Denis Naughten.