Mr. P. J. Fitzpatrick:

From memory, the contract is the period from 2010 to 2014. As the Deputy knows, it is not a full-time role. As the contract took in the wording of the agreement, there is no specific date. If the agreement ceases to operate, the contract will cease.

We did not make the comment referred to lightly. It was a considered statement that was subscribed to by management and union personnel. It is a statement on behalf of the nine members of the body. I also agree that there are thousands working very hard and trying to cope with fewer staff. In many cases they are doing a really good job.

The main issues of concern are the big ticket items such as shared services. We can see how much can be saved in the Civil Service, particularly in areas such as education and local government. There is another in which we have sought more information, although I am not arguing that nothing has happened. Nevertheless, we do not have information from the voluntary sector. There is a significant amount spent in the health sector on voluntary hospitals and mental handicap organisations. Smaller voluntary organisations are also funded by the State.