Memorable Budgets - 1992, Bertie's First budget

Bertie's First Budget

In his first budget, Minister for Finance Bertie Ahern broadened income tax bands and cut the two remaining rates to 27% and 48%. Measures were introduced to curtail employer and employee tax loopholes. The price of petrol came down 9p a gallon while the price of 20 cigarettes went up by 16p.

The budget was somewhat overshadowed by the pending resignation of the Taoiseach Charles J. Haughey. Many commentators viewed the budget as an attempt to cement the Fianna Fáil-Progressive Democrat coalition. PD leader Des O'Malley warned that the credibility of the coalition was at stake after Sean Doherty's revelations about the 1982 telephone taps.

Photocall for Minister, Daughters and Briefcase

Bertie Ahern is accompanied by his daughters Cecelia and Georgina at the press photo call prior to presenting his first budget.

Bruton and Spring Question Fianna Fail Leadership

Opposition leaders John Bruton and Dick Spring question the Taoiseach regarding any decision he may make about his resignation. Bruton asks that the work of the house not be interrupted for too long. Haughey in replying assures the house that there will not be a repeat of Bruton's 1982 budget where a general election had to be called. Ceann Comhairle Seán Treacy rules Dick Spring's question out of order.

Charles J. Haughey announced his resignation the following day.