Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I appreciate the Deputy's comments. Questions asked on Committee Stage related to the arrears issue, with which I dealt in full conscience with a view to giving the full information. Given the sensitivity of these issues, it would have been better to have consulted Opposition spokespersons and explained the source of the proposed amendments, including the amendments regarding the change from three years to two years, in which both schemes would be put on an even keel, and the potential beneficiaries. I make this point not to be coy, but to respect the situation and to be answerable to the House. I do not want to preach anything further.

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