Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I accept the Taoiseach's word that he has made no deal with Deputy Flynn apart from comments about the national spatial strategy and the national development plan including Transport 21. References to deals about the protection of cancer facilities and so on were not part of those discussions.

I do not suggest that the Taoiseach was in a position to exert pressure on the national broadcaster but that when the Taoiseach speaks on an issue the weekend before a major court case, people, like the agencies taking cognisance of Government policy, would surely take note of what he says. I am happy to note that the arrangements, or agreements as they have been called and touted by several Independent Deputies, are merely reflections of what is contained in the national development plan and that there is nothing outrageously special about them just because they offer support when they vote on occasions. I thank the Taoiseach for that confirmation. I accept his word in the House, speaking as Taoiseach on this matter.

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