Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 4 to 8, inclusive, together.

The agreements referred to are political agreements entered into by my predecessor as leader of the Fianna Fáil Party with individual Independent Deputies - namely, Deputies Healy-Rae and Lowry. On becoming leader of Fianna Fáil, I confirmed to the Deputies concerned that I would continue to implement those agreements. As the House is aware, such arrangements have existed for more than 12 years.

The agreements are confidential but are, as always, based on the programme for Government, which incorporates the national development plan, approved Government programmes and annual Estimates for capital and current expenditure. I have continued the practice whereby a staff member in my office assists the Chief Whip's office in its work in liaising with these Deputies. The staff member meets the Deputies on a regular basis and arranges to keep them briefed on issues as they arise. No changes have been made to these arrangements.

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