Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

My experience in the pay talks categorically shows there is an attitudinal change by employers, unions, politicians and the people who work in the public service. We must deal with productivity and flexibility issues; that is the only way services can be provided. There is an acceptance of that. It is hoped that, on the basis of discussions by the unions and employers, we will have agreement on the pay talks, although I do not wish to pre-empt them.

As regards the agencies and changes within the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, I have met many of the people who work for me and with me. I agree with the Deputy, as I stated in my reply, that the work of many people in the public service goes well beyond the financial retribution they are paid because they are part of the public service. Equated to this is a need to ensure flexibility and change.

There is an old saying that one should never ask somebody to do something one would not do oneself. I will be working with officials in my Department to ensure we are receiving value for money, are flexible and are changing and evolving. Reform is about evolving. The Deputy will be aware that the Taoiseach is, as are all Members, committed to public service reform. It is in the context outlined that my Department and agencies will participate in this reform.

The Deputy will be aware that all agencies and their work are to be reviewed prior to the budget. I have views on the matter and they will be expressed by the Minister for Finance in due course.

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