Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

That is why the Government has introduced a realistic minimum wage. The Government will do all it can to have this matter resolved on the basis that both sides come together. We must keep in mind that jobs will continue to be at risk for as long as the dispute continues. The need to secure a resolution consistent with the recommendation of the Labour Court is and will continue to be the focus of the Government's endeavours. Any attempt by the Opposition to misrepresent the Government's position will be strenuously defended by Government members. While the Opposition seeks advantage from this issue, we remain consistent in our approach——

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