Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)

There is an issue of national interest in respect of the arrangements being made to provide assistance for Greece and its membership of the euro. It would assist greatly if we could have the issue discussed in the House. The Taoiseach has been a little vague as to when the legislation will be before the House. He said it would be considered by Government but it would be useful to know when it is to be introduced in the House. Given that Government has yet to agree the legislation it would be helpful also if there were an opportunity for the House to be given a report by the Minister for Finance, with an opportunity for spokespersons to respond to it.

Ireland is not Greece. Invidious comparisons are being made at present, some domestically, some internationally, which are not helpful to the country's overall interest. In addressing those issues and maintaining a position which puts the national interest and the overall interest of the country's finances at its heart it would be helpful if the issue were discussed in the House. I ask the Taoiseach whether some arrangements might be made for that and if he can be more specific as to when the legislation will come before the House.

Ministers have responsibility to answer parliamentary questions.

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