Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)

I want to ask about two items. On the day that inflation went up to 5%, it is disappointing to hear the Tánaiste is not going to proceed, as a priority, with further legislation to protect consumers. Earlier, she told us she has other legislative priorities that have been agreed by the social partners. It is my understanding that the Employment Law Compliance Bill 2008 has not been agreed by the social partners, which is why it has been published but not brought before this House. Also, the employment agency Bill has not been published. Perhaps the Tánaiste might clarify her comments in that regard and tell the House exactly what legislation has been agreed by the social partners that she is prioritising because I do not believe that is correct.

As regards State agencies, we have had a little bit of bluster recently from the Government, where it has suddenly expressed an interest in rationalising them. In that regard, will the Tánaiste at least confirm that the following Bills on the legislative agenda that established new quangos are going to be withdrawn: the Curragh of Kildare Bill, the Irish Sports Council Bill and the education Ireland Bill?

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