Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The committee can discuss how it wishes to deal with the debate on the NAMA Bill in the context of the time available and it can make sure the important sections are debated. The purpose of trying to do it that way is to facilitate that.

With regard to the pre-budget outlook, a report that examined every area of expenditure was available to the Opposition at the same time it was available to us. We are in a process of preparing budgets and Estimates and that is proceeding in the aftermath of the referendum and everything else. The NAMA legislation is another issue that has to be dealt with. In the coming weeks, we must do all that work within that timeframe.

A debate on the pre-budget outlook can be had on the basis of the McCarthy and Commission on Taxation reports and other ideas, proposals and policy initiatives Members wish to discuss.

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