Pat Rabbitte (Dublin South West, Labour)

I take Deputy Bruton's argument about the implications of singling out the Judiciary for no pay increase during the lifetime of this Government. The precedent for this rests with Mr. de Valera in the 1930s, although it is fair to say in 1932 Mr. de Valera had greater prospects for holding office for a longer period than the Minister of State, Deputy Martin Mansergh, has at present. However it works in theory, in practice it will probably mean the Judiciary will not forgo a great amount in the months ahead.

Will the Minister of State, Deputy Mansergh, put on record a simple answer to a simple, straightforward question, please? Do I understand correctly that the terms of this Bill apply to everyone working in the public service who was a victim of the pension income levy and no one beyond that group?

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