Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The Minister for Finance has brought in a good deal of important legislation in the House over the past 12 to 18 months. It is not a question of the Minister twiddling his thumbs while there is legislation to be passed. He has done a considerable amount of very important work in that area for the country, the Parliament and the Government. This is another Bill that is required to be completed, and it can be completed. It is a matter for the Minister and the Chief Whip, in the first instance, along with the other Whips, to decide when it can be taken. We did not introduce the Bill so that it would not be implemented. It is a question of going ahead with it. It is a matter of some priority and importance at present.

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