Cowen set to deliver ‘unique’ Budget

ONE of the country’s leading economists expects the 2007 Budget to be expansionary and to deliver a surplus at the same time.

Finance Minister Brian Cowen will find himself in this unique position next year, according to Ulster Bank chief economist Pat McArdle.

He told the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Ireland yesterday, that strong economic growth made it possible for Mr Cowen to meet people’s expectations and still appear fiscally responsible. Tax buoyancy, which showed strong momentum in 2006, will carry over into 2007.