Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Deputy Kenny raised the first point yesterday and I indicated to the House that the Tánaiste had met with representatives of these companies, or certainly with one of them. She indicated that she would take up the matter with the Department of Finance. It is my understanding that the Department has had a good record in ensuring we always get timely enactment of directives which have an employment content, or in which there is an importance attaching to an activity in Ireland, to ensure we do not create a competitive disadvantage vis-À-vis other jurisdictions which implement these directives as we must do. The payment services issue is something that will be taken in hand. The other directive is also important. I will take it up with the Minister concerned.

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