Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

With regard to the first matter raised, it is hoped at this point that this legislation could come to the House next Thursday for Report Stage at least and hopefully for its finalisation. On the second matter, the Minister of State with responsibility for children and youth affairs, Deputy Barry Andrews, has advanced a great deal of work in this area which we hope will come to Government soon, possibly before Christmas. We may then have to come back and talk to people who have put forward other wording for discussion. I do not know what the process may be but the work of the Minister of State is being advanced.

Budget day will be the day on which, based on the budget announcements, we can outline what legislative enactments are necessary to implement that budget and what period may be regarded as appropriate for its preparation and proper enactment.

See this speech in context