Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

On the last point, these are questions that arise. I am sure the Taoiseach has been asked these questions by constituents. There are people who intend retiring under this arrangement. They are making calculations based on the likelihood of the lump sum being taxed in the future. An issue arises in regard to what will happen to their lump sums if their applications are refused. Let us say, perhaps, a garda sergeant or superintendent applies to retire under this arrangement and it is considered that too many people have applied, will some be permitted to retire and others not. What will happen in respect of the lump sums of those whose applications are refused, if lump sums are taxed in the future? It was quite clear from what the Minister for Finance said on budget day that the lump sum of those who applied to retire now would not be taxed. Some people will make their calculations on that. Will the Taoiseach give an assurance that the lump sum of anyone who applies to retire and is refused will not be taxed?

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