Sensible Budget promised by jovial Cowen

Finance Minister Brian Cowen was in jovial mood this morning as anticipation mounted in advance of his third Budget.

Up to 15 photographers got their first glimpse of the Budget 2007 book which was earlier unveiled to Cabinet at a breakfast meeting.

The Tullamore TD joked at the photocall in his Finance Department conference room that to combat his dour image, he may bring a banjo into the Dáil chamber to liven up his presentation.

He said he may even get advice from tie-less TD Tony Gregory on his Budget day tie which has attracted strong betting from bookies.

Mr Cowen was today wearing a navy blue and grey tie but he always changes it again before his mid-afternoon speech.

When he was accused of being too dour for the launch of the Estimates last month, a relaxed Mr Cowen said he may lighten his mood today: “I might play the banjo,” he joked.

He predicted that there may be one or two surprises in his measures: “It depends on how surprised a person can be.”

Referring to speculation on tax cuts, he told reporters: “If there is half as much chatter about this as there has been before…”

When asked what colour tie he would choose, he name-checked an Independent TD who never wears a tie in the Dáil.

“I’ll ask Tony Gregory for some advice,” he joked.

Speaking about Cabinet reaction to his Budget, Mr Cowen said: “There was a broad welcome to the balance that has been struck in the Budget. I think that there is a strong fiscal and economic climate, the policies are working, the revenue is up.

“We obviously need to be sensible and make sure we are prepared in the event of an economic downturn internationally.

“We must also meet the immediate priorities as identified by the Government while adopting a consistent approach from all perspectives, while looking at the long-term plan.

“I’m bringing in a substantial Budget surplus.”