Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael)

In response to a previous question, the Taoiseach told Deputy Bruton that one adapts and prioritises according to the new situation the country faces. While that is an eminently reasonable attitude, is it therefore logical for the Taoiseach, as Head of Government, to instruct his line Ministers to explain to us their exact priorities for the commitments given in each area of the programme? In education, for example, the Taoiseach is aware that 56 priorities have been set out for the lifetime of the Government. Which of these commitments will be met? Is it not reasonable for the Taoiseach to instruct his Ministers to set out the substantial priorities in light of the new economic backdrop?

See this speech in context