Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)

I do not disagree fundamentally with the Deputy. The key sentence in my reply is, "The discussions are being conducted in accordance with the contract change procedures". I am tied to the procedures, which were agreed previously, relating to how the changes are to be brought about. This is what the mid-term review report feeds into. I have said to the Deputy and give my word that I would like to publish the report as quickly as possible. I have allowed some space for the Department and the NCTS staff to discuss the contents of the report. I intend to bring the discussions to a conclusion as quickly as possible and I would like to circulate the report in the public domain. One should allow reasonable time for discussions between both parties to ensure they understand the issues. The public has a right to know what was recommended in the report. The report has been produced and it has been discussed by both parties as per the procedures agreed under the existing contract and I would like to see the discussions concluded and the report published.

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