Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I have no problem with public servants being fairly and equitably paid. Those salaries should be accounted for as well as being in line with best practice. Within the ranks of the public service itself, however, there is outrage at the apparent - and, in some cases, proven - level of performance-related pay or bonuses allocated to particular sectors and particular individuals in some sectors. That is what is causing real anger because people were told by the Minister for Finance that the budget was fair, equitable and just. They do not see that, however, because carers and others looking after those with mental health problems at the lower levels are being asked to pay increased taxes, levies and charges of one sort or another. They also see evidence of serious money being paid, either as performance-related increases or bonuses, to particular individuals. That is what is causing the problem.

The Minister for Finance sent out a circular about this. I am glad the Taoiseach has confirmed that the practice has been discontinued at assistant secretary, deputy secretary and Secretary General levels. In respect of the Department of Finance, are these discretionary bonuses that are paid by the Minister for Finance? I understood that any individual from the rank of principal officer upwards in the Department of Finance is graded higher than an equivalent category in any other Department. Are these discretionary bonuses that are paid by the Minister for Finance?

Can the Taoiseach confirm that, in accordance with the circular issued by the Minister for Finance, there is an end to the bonus culture in the semi-State agency sector? It appears as if that is not the case. Some of the payments that have been made are extraordinary. I do not know whether the payment made in the Dublin Airport Authority, the harbour authorities or CIE were discretionary ones.

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