Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I agree with Deputy Gilmore. It was the view of the Fine Gael Party that there should be a Private Members' debate on this subject this evening and the Government has no problem in agreeing to this. We have now received a request without prior notice which I am seeking to accommodate. I suggest we take statements on industrial action. The Whips can meet in the meantime. I suggest we finish our business at 8.30 p.m. or 8.45 p.m. and work out the details based on statements-----

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