Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I have no ulterior agenda other than to try to be helpful on the matter. If the Opposition parties prefer that the Government brings forward its full proposals in public, we could do so. I would prefer if the Minister of State, Deputy Brian Lenihan, had private consultations with the parties and we awaited their outcome. Otherwise we might as well make the entire proposals public and say this is the Government's view and that we will listen to comments. I do not think we would gain time or secure proper agreement and consultation if we did that. It would not work. People should engage with the Minister of State and see if we can come to an agreement. If we cannot, I will publish our proposals.

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