Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

In respect of the legislative programme published by the Whip, as the Taoiseach will recall, before the Christmas break interest focused on the importance of getting through the budget in order that a signal would go out internationally that at least the big decisions had been made and, subsequently, the social welfare Bill. Both the budget and social welfare Bill were passed and it was decided the House would return one week earlier than planned for the express purpose of dealing speedily and effectively with the finance Bill. We now learn that the Bill will not be published until next week and will not be debated until 25 January. The Government has suddenly gone all regulatory by having a two week break before Committee Stage and a further break before Report Stage. The Bill will then go before the Seanad and will not be finished until towards the end of February. The Taoiseach knows well that if the Government was serious about moving the Bill through the House in a more expeditious manner, this could be done. Before Christmas I stated that if it wanted assistance from this side of the House, the Bill could be passed before Christmas if it was in a form that would allow that to happen. My offer was, of course, rejected.

If the finance Bill moves through Second Stage quickly and a two week break is not necessary, is the Government willing to bring it forward? People have always objected when sufficient time was not provided for legislation. However, much of the content of the finance Bill has been discussed and the main provisions of the budget have been introduced. Is the Government fixed on the timescale which was laid out without consultation with the Opposition Whips?

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