Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

The Labour Party is not prepared to agree the Order of Business until we secure clarification from the Taoiseach in respect of the social welfare Bill. Last week, it was intimated the Bill would be taken next week. Today, there is some talk around the place that there is a possibility or an intention on the part of the Government to have the legislation put through the House on Friday of this week. I wish to establish from the Taoiseach exactly what the Government's intentions are with regard to the Bill. I am sure by now the Government has clarified in its own mind when it will be brought before the House and what Stages will be put at various times. This information should now be shared with us.

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