Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

I assure the Deputy my political skin is well hardened and well worn after 26 years in public life. He need have no worries in that regard. I am talking about the merits of the legislation before us, but I am well aware of the political charges the Deputy and his colleagues would like to continue to dissipate to the public. The churn of statements never ceases to amaze me, despite how inconsistent they may be. I suppose that is the luxury of opposition.

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