Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

Deputy Rabbitte will not be surprised to learn that is not the way any member of the Government sees it. Yes, the Opposition has put forward all types of bright and wonderful suggestions, as has the Government, but there has to be compromise on issues. I do not know why we cannot get agreement on some of the simple matters. However, there has to be give and take. It is not just a question of the Opposition tabling suggestions and everyone agreeing. That is not how parliaments operate. However, there are initiatives that can be taken. Perhaps they will be taken in a future Dáil. I do not see any appetite among the Opposition parties to agree to the Government's suggestions in this Dáil.

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