Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

When we get the study, which will show us the outlook for the fund in the years ahead, we will have a better view as to the likelihood of it going into deficit. I certainly do not envisage that in the short, or medium, term but it is a possibility in the long term given the demographic pressures on the fund. I wish to reassure the House that any proposals which would affect the fund or put it into deficit must, legally, be made up by the Exchequer for the taxpayer. Taxpayers have paid this PRSI for a long time. PRSI is a tax on work which is why we are determined to try to reduce it and give people more take home pay.

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