Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

In the first instance, the Minister for Finance must be given an opportunity to brief me and the Government on the up-to-date position. We will then be obliged to take account of the various emerging and evolving issues. It is important that we get this matter right. In getting it right we must take into account whatever views are expressed at various fora. We must also show our co-operative spirit and make efforts to see if we can, to the greatest extent possible, address any concerns or issues being raised. The Government must give careful consideration to these matters. When they have been considered, we will proceed to finalising the terms and conditions of the scheme. The best I can do at this stage is to say I will be discussing the matter with the Minister later this evening. I will be in a better position to deal more comprehensively with the issue tomorrow morning. At this point, I can only provide Members with the information I have to hand.

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