Greens: FF policy document 'a work of fiction'
Fianna Fáil's economic costings launched today are "typical of the 'facing two ways' approach that the party has been so adept at", Green Party finance spokesperson Dan Boyle said today.
"On the one hand we have the promise that the good times will continue to roll and that all expectations can continue to be met, just to appear responsible," said Boyle.
"However, we have a commitment that the national debt, untouched in absolute terms for the past number of years, will begin to be reduced and by a considerable amount."
"Why the debt was not reduced when the State's coffers were at their most overflowing is most obvious initial question.
"In the run up to the last general election, Fianna Fáil similarly swamped the voters with milk and honey promises. Once that election was over though, it was followed by an immediate period of financial retrenchment with many of those spending promises being put onto a back burner.
"Fianna Fáil seem to want to ignore some of the more worrying economic indicators that are available and may impact on future growth.
"For instance the rate of inflation is high, rising and is showing little signs of reducing in the near future. The European Central Bank Rate is expected to increase on at least two more occasions this year.
"This document should only be read as an election document with all the characteristics of any other work of fiction."
