Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

I am working through each of the issues in turn. Regarding Ministers of State, the Taoiseach made it clear in the House yesterday that everybody has to work in the current crisis, including Ministers of State. They will have to work in this crisis but he has no immediate proposals for a reduction in their numbers. The Government takes the view that Ministers of State are necessary to assist in governing the country in what is a very difficult time. As regards Dáil committees, I welcome the proposal mooted by the Deputy and will take it up with the Government.

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