Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

We have the second highest, if not the highest, minimum wage. The legislation we had worked out with the social partners is under preparation. The first part of it was put to the Government today. Separate units are working on two other parts and we are committed to the arrangements we came to. I hope the services directive will find its way into the various policy initiatives by the Commission over the months ahead.

The EU battle groups were obviously not discussed at the recent European Council meeting but we are going to participate. Participation will be based on the triple-lock mechanism. Training will commence in 2007 with a view to commencement in 2008. It will be on the basis which the Minister for Defence, Deputy O'Dea, puts before the House.

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