Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

The question of the interregnum period that would apply would need to be considered. However, we can have a look at that. I am prepared to co-operate on these sorts of matters at the appropriate time. I do not buy into the Deputy's argument that it is from here on out. Until a general election is called the Government has its duties and functions to perform. One cannot decide that is not the case. It is in the context of a post-general election situation, recognising the outcomes, that one tries to ensure any functions performed by the Government are consistent with a transitional period, whatever that is. We need to be sensible about this. The Government cannot abdicate its responsibilities and at the same time some sensible discussions could possibly take place.

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