Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

It is a matter for the Whips to consider. It was intended, as the Deputy knows, to proceed this week but that has been overtaken by events. Of course, the use of our committee system for these specialised debates is not excluded either.

The sale of alcohol Bill will be early next year. In the aftermath of the budget, whatever social welfare changes are envisaged will have to be enacted within the timelines that are provided for.

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