Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Yes, I will. It would not be the subject matter of the report because it is about a different matter, but I will ensure that part of the report will look at this issue which the Deputy has raised on many occasions. We will give it recognition in the report.

On Deputy Pearse Doherty's point about timing, we will do it within six months. The report will not be about the role of trade unions in the economy or society; rather, it will be about the very specific issue of tax relief, acknowledging past views, and look at what happens elsewhere to see whether there are options for us and what the pros and cons are. To manage everybody's expectations, I am not committing to seeking a tax strategy group type paper or something on that scale, but I believe that within six months we can sum up how it happens elsewhere, the pros and cons in whether it should be done and inform the committee and the Minister of the day on the issue. Many things are happening in the global and national economies that need strong governments, parliaments and institutions such as unions. We should be looking at these matters afresh.

To respond to Deputy Burton's point, I am sure the report that will be produced by the Department of Finance can look at that option.