Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The reason is one is setting the thresholds not only for this year, but for years ahead. We will not return to this matter every year. It is a fair balance, taking all the considerations into account. It is a judgment call. One could say €1,500, €2,000 or €2,500. The Government felt that was a fair balance taking into account all the considerations and in recognition that this would be the amount for some years hence as well. I do not think it should be a matter of serious contention between us. I have explained the considerations one is trying to take into account. We want something that has efficacy and continued transparency but that is also sensible in the context of where the country is at currently and the future we face. I do not expect everyone to agree with the amounts and amendments may be tabled to the contrary. However, the motivation behind the change is to try to ensure we have thresholds that will serve us for some time to come as well as for the present. It is 15 years since we last looked at those thresholds.

Deputy Gilmore referred to months. I am not aware of the details or whether any discussions have taken place on the matter but it is a good suggestion that we would ask the County and City Managers' Association and the Association of Higher Civil and Public Servants for their views as they could be helpful to us in finding a modus vivendi that is sensible for everybody. I do not think there is any reticence or refusal on anyone's part to try to bring in something that would be helpful in ensuring that we do not allow the idea to arise that people are engaged in haphazardly moving from one sector to another in a way that does not take cognisance of the importance of upholding public confidence. This is all about upholding public confidence in the duties of office holders or senior civil holders as they move from one career to another.

The question of ethical behaviour is one for individuals themselves. If one were moving, one would understand or should know the potential conflicts involved. It is up to each individual to ensure he or she does not engage in those files that could be sensitive. Perhaps it might be helpful to have a legislative or code of conduct response to consultations with the various bodies in terms of coming up with arrangements that are regarded as sensible that would meet the requirements of the situation.

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