Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

We must make clear, in a way that is consistent with the public finance position as well, where we stand. I made the point on 9 December when we discussed these aspects in detail that there was no certainty in regard to 2011 and beyond regarding reductions in the public service pay bill. Unfortunately we did not reach a successful conclusion on that matter.

There are issues surrounding reforms that I believe will be an improvement for everyone, including public service workers, in due course. It is not just a question of calling people in, there must be a context and agenda that can be agreed. From our point of view, we cannot simply walk away from the budget strategy and decisions that were necessary on 1 December by saying on 1 February they no longer matter; of course they matter.

Those decisions have been taken and we must move on now to see what other areas of the public sector pay bill can be improved in terms of both services and the lot of workers through agreed arrangements.

See this speech in context