Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin (Cavan-Monaghan, Sinn Fein)

I understand from the Taoiseach's response to Deputy Gilmore that these documents in draft form will be open to Members of the House some time later today. Is that what the Taoiseach is suggesting? Is he indicating that they will be merely concluded today, and will not be seen until later this week? The memorandum of understanding is a critical document, in terms of the detail applying to the arrangement. When will these documents be laid before Members of this House? When will the Opposition parties have sight of the detail contained in them?

I would like to ask again about the statements on the IMF-EU agreement. The absence of a voting opportunity for Members at the end of the debate is the subject of my objection to the Order of Business. Has the Taoiseach sought legal advice on the matter? Has he referred it to the Attorney General? Can he answer the questions that have been asked in the House about the constitutionality of the steps the Government is taking?

The finance and social welfare Bills are usually taken as part of the outworking of the budget each year. It has already been indicated that other legislation is expected this year. Does that include legislation to take €40 per week from those who depend on the minimum wage? That is what will really happen across the board, based on a 40-hour working week. Is legislation planned to give effect to the reduction in the minimum wage? Does the Government intend to introduce other legislation in the aftermath of next week's budget to give effect to the measures it is planning?

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