Mr. Martin Shanahan:

I apologise if I gave any impression other than that it was for the Government to set policy. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked for my view on the matter. I am regularly asked what would or would not help in attracting foreign direct investment. It is absolutely clear that it is for the Government and the Oireachtas to set policy positions on all of these issues. In a similar fashion, the Deputy asked me what would help to support regional development from the perspective of the provision of infrastructure, education and so on and I gave my view. I have similar views on tax matters. I am not suggesting anybody should listen to them, but that does not mean that I should not share them.