Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The position is that it is a matter for the Whips and the Minister for Finance as to when it will be taken. Regarding the whole question of thresholds and limits, the threshold of €650 had not been increased since 1995. The idea was to make sure that it would be dealt with in a way that did not involve the commission in the valuation of every gift that would be obtained. On the question of amendments and what people want to do regarding amendments on the size of these gifts, it is a matter which can be debated in the House. It is not an issue which I am holding fast on.

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