Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

As the Deputy has been aware for some time, agreements entered into by my predecessor with a number of Deputies are political in nature and details relating to them are not covered by parliamentary questions. These agreements are confidential but, as has always been the case, they are based on the programme for Government, which incorporates the national development plan, approved Government programmes and annual Estimates for capital and current expenditure. For some time, that has been the established position with regard to agreements with Independent Deputies.

It is open to people to continue to make representations in respect of a range of issues and we continue to be of assistance to Deputies who support the Government regarding matters they raise. Those Deputies entered into political agreements with my predecessor and, as stated on previous occasions, I intend to honour these.

I cannot comment on any speculation the Deputy may have read in respect of this matter. The issues to which I refer are dealt with on an ongoing basis with the Deputies involved on a bona fide basis.

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