Seán Barrett (Dún Laoghaire, Fine Gael)

I support this amendment. I have always felt it is a matter that should be inserted into and debated in conjunction with the Estimates for each Department. It is an actual cost.

It could lead to greater efficiency if Departments realise the cost of the pension liability. There are many areas where savings could be made if Departments knew that they were responsible and the costs attaching to the pension liabilities were clear.

At long last, this is an amendment that the Minister could find his way to accept. It will not damage in any way the amounts of money that will be collected. It is an attempt, once again, by this side of the House to be constructive and to help in the overall presentation of the costs of each Department year by year. It can do nothing but good in making people aware of the reality and perhaps in some way lead to savings or make people conscious of the need to make savings.

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