Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

On the debate due to take place today, the Minister for Finance, Deputy Lenihan, as everyone knows, is attending an ECOFIN meeting today. The proposal involves the extension of an existing guarantee in relation to these matters. Members will be aware that the Minister is by way of his responsibilities involved in the four year plan and budget preparations. We need to proceed with this matter.

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