Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I object to the way in which it is proposed to deal with No. 5. We have consistently objected to the guillotining of all Bills through the House, but especially this one. Deputy Bruton has mentioned on numerous occasions that this Bill has a direct impact on all those in receipt of public pay, but particularly the 55,000 people with an income of less than €30,000. I ask the Taoiseach to consider again the possibility of having such people excluded on the basis of what Fine Gael has put forward. When the Minister for Finance was asked about this - I understand he is indisposed today and I hope he makes a speedy and full recovery - he said it would be very difficult in respect of the lower paid segment of the public service. However, that does not mean it is impossible; it is not impossible. From that point of view, this Bill should be discussed in a more thorough and complete fashion. I object to its guillotining under this proposal.

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