Mary Harney (Dublin Mid West, Progressive Democrats)

I am more than happy to facilitate a debate on this matter. For the record, the Act that was brought in by Deputy Howlin when he was Minister for Health left discretion for this matter with the Minister for Health and Children. The Minister of the day used that discretion. I took the advice of the advisers that had been appointed — Mercer — one of the leading actuarial companies, not only in Ireland but in Europe in regard to this matter. I would be very happy to have a debate, perhaps immediately after the Order of Business, but if that is not convenient for the Deputies, I am prepared to facilitate a debate for one hour.

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