Cowen challenges Opposition to spell out savings plans

Taoiseach Brian Cowen today challenged the Opposition to provide details of how they would cut €4bn in December's Budget.

Speaking at an Ógra Fianna Fáil conference in Co Donegal, Mr Cowen also echoed the words of former Taoiseach Charles Haughey in the 1980s, saying Ireland today was living way beyond its means.

The country is spending €50 for every €30 of income earned, he said.

Rejecting the call from union bosses for an eight-year strategy to correct the public finances, the Taoiseach said that would add €40bn onto the national debt.

Ahead of next week's Dáil debate on the pre-budget outlook Mr Cowen said the country deserves to see exactly how the Opposition would achieve the necessary €4bn in savings.

The Taoiseach said alternative proposals put forward by Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny and Labour leader Eamon Gilmore lacked detail.

“It is becoming increasingly clear that Deputy Kenny and Deputy Gilmore are strong on rhetoric but short on specifics,” Mr Cowen said.

“It’s time for them to park the soundbites and to be honest with the people as to what exactly is their

budgetary policy.

“We look forward next week to seeing Fine Gael and Labour set out a realistic framework for achieving the adjustments that must be made.

“Such a positive and constructive contribution would be a welcome change from the usual predictable and partisan criticisms emanating from the opposition benches.”