Kenny challenges the Taoiseach to call a General Election over Budget

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15:00: Speaking in advance of the Budget, Fine Gael leader Enda Kenny has challenged the Taoiseach to call a General Election.

Speaking in the Dáil, Enda Kenny asked Brian Cowen would he put today's Budget to the people, so that a mandate be given so the country can be led 'out of this mess'.

Brian Cowen re-iterated that there is no 'silver bullet' to remedy the economic problems. Referring to Fine Gael's weekend not to increase income tax rates, Brian Cowen said there will be a greater imposition on tax and that it's better to straight on honest about it.

Responding to Labour leader Eamon Gilmore's question about the possible creation of a so-called bad bank, the Taoiseach said Finance Minister Brian Lenihan has indicated that the banking system would be addressed in his Budget speech.