Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

We have set out in the parliamentary schedule the fact that any proper consideration of the finance Bill, which is the most important Bill of the year, would require, as the Deputy has seen from the schedule, a week's debate on Second Stage, a week off for amendments to prepare for Committee Stage in the normal way, Report Stage and then on to the Seanad. An expeditious schedule has been clearly set out and it cannot be done any sooner than that.

Other legislation also has to be passed, including the NAMA (amendment) Bill. There are certain commitments we have given under the EU-IMF financial package and we have to show responsibility in discharging those international obligations as well. They are to be enacted in the first quarter. Specific timetables in the EU-IMF financial package need to be addressed. Rather than this toing and froing, we should simply acknowledge that there is a body of work to be done in a proper, responsible and considered way. It will involve all sides of the House and, thereafter, the prerogative of the Taoiseach in respect of the dissolution of the Dáil and the calling of an election will take place. We should just get on with the business.

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