Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)

If the Deputy makes smart comments, he can expect smart responses in return. He will be aware that the current PSO contracts end in July. He will also be aware of the severe financial constraints under which the current Government is operating and under which its successor will be obliged to operate for the next three to four years. Decisions must be made and endless prevarication in respect of issues of this nature is of assistance to no one.

As the Deputy has admitted, consultations took place. The terms of reference relating to the consultation process are listed at the back of the value-for-money review document and everyone was aware of the destination to which that process was leading. On the basis of the submissions made, the advice received and, as already stated, the nature of the country's current financial circumstances, the Government made the decision I outlined earlier.

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