Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

I am surprised to hear the Tánaiste say that no date has been set for the budget. This time last year when, arguably, the economy was not in extremis to the extent that it is now, the Government thought it necessary to bring forward the date of the budget with a big announcement. We are almost at the end of September and most people anticipate that the budget will be presented at the end of November or beginning of December. There are not many options regarding dates. Can the Tánaiste confirm that the budget will be presented this side of Christmas? If so, can we expect it on approximately the same date as previously, which is the first week in December?

Deputy Kenny sought the Tánaiste's commitment on two matters regarding the NAMA legislation. First, that Second Stage will not be guillotined. That is a not a decision for the Whips but for Government. I would like an assurance that the debate will not be guillotined. Second, Deputy Kenny sought, as I did last week, a commitment that Committee Stage of the Bill will be taken on the floor of the House, given its importance. I asked the Taoiseach about this last week. Has the Government considered that suggestion and what is its response to it?

The labour services (amendment) Bill, which is in the Tánaiste's own portfolio, is promised to restructure the board of FÁS and, as stated in the document circulated by the Chief Whip, "to strengthen the accountability of the director general of FÁS". When will that Bill be published?

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