Dáil debates

Tuesday, 2 December 2008

2:30 pm

Photo of Brian CowenBrian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I reject the Deputy's assertion in respect of the Minister.

I answered the other questions he posed in my initial reply. The agreements in question are political in nature and were entered into by my predecessor as leader of the Fianna Fáil Party with individual Independent Deputies. The House is aware that such arrangements have existed for over 11 years. The decision taken by Deputy Finian McGrath to withdraw from the agreement made with him obviously has its own implications. That is understood. These agreements are confidential but are, as always, based on the programme for Government, which incorporates the national development plan, approved Government programmes and annual Estimates for capital and current expenditure. That answers the questions Deputy Ó Caoláin asked.

These are normal arrangements that have been in place for 11 years. The agreements were entered into by my predecessor. I am aware of their contents and can confirm that they exist in written form. Upon becoming Taoiseach I met those who have given their support to the Government and confirmed my intention to assist in the implementation of their agreements — consistent with the provisions in the programme for Government and overall economic and social policy — in good faith and to the greatest extent possible.

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