Liz McManus (Wicklow, Labour)

It is up to the Minister to set a timeframe. He is not convincing in saying the BAI should take total control, even if it is the negotiating body.

The Minister now says it will be up to the BAI to look at alternatives. He is the Minister responsible. Can he outline his Department's view of the alternatives available if the current negotiations are not successful? Everyone knows about the disagreement about the tariff and this does not engender confidence. Clearly, the Minister has looked at options. Can he outline them, as well as outlining the timeline for the conclusion of the process?

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