Damien English (Meath West, Fine Gael)
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On that last point, that is probably where we think the benefit might be regarding having a visible list of agreements that have been reached. Again, they are private agreements reached in private companies. The State does not have an involvement. They are private arrangements in private companies but it would beneficial for all involved - certainly employees and everyone else - if we can see them and clearly know they are there. I have asked whether we can try to get a handle on how many private agreements have been made so that is something we are looking at. The question about it being on the balance sheet is a discussion about having a fund. If a company enters into an agreement, I presume at that time in good faith, is there a way of paying for those arrangements? Generally, those agreements were paid out quite quickly because they are part of the process of that time. That is my understanding of them. If they are to be there long term because in some cases, they are or become terms of employment or part of an employment negotiation, are funds allocated or an asset ring-fenced to pay for them? That is what the Duffy Cahill report looked at.