Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I cannot comment further on the matter raised by Deputy Kenny. I am not in a position to do so. Arrangements were made here yesterday at short notice to take a private notice question. The matter was fully aired in the House and the Minister set out the position. As Deputy Kenny said, a separation of powers principle is involved here. Anything further that can be done by the Minister in regard to any indications he has given as to how he can assist in this matter in a way that respects that separation of powers principle is something that should be taken up directly with his office. I do not have any further information than that which he gave to the House yesterday.

Regarding the whistleblowers Bill, this is a matter Deputy Rabbitte previously raised when I took the Order of Business. I cannot add to the points I have given to the House when I made the fullest possible explanation. As I understand it, it is a Labour Party Bill that was introduced in Private Members' time. The Government is of the view that it can deal with some of what is contemplated by that Bill in various legislation sectorally rather than in one Bill covering all areas of activity. I am not aware that there has been any change in that situation and, certainly, nothing has come before Government that indicates a change in that situation at this time. I cannot say what is being contemplated or considered for the future. The question is probably best addressed to the line Minister who took the Bill in the first place.

I am not aware of the operational arrangements being made regarding the giving out of tenders by the National Roads Authority. Regardless of whether companies mentioned by Deputy Rabbitte or anyone else are involved, occurrences in recent months are such that the Government has taken considerable steps, through the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, to enhance the inspection and monitoring of the contractual obligations of contractors. Every Member would support this and would want our laws on these matters and workers' rights to be respected.

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