Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

The Deputy is aware that there is a comprehensive spending review taking place in all Departments. When it becomes available, the Ministers for Public Expenditure and Reform and Finance will reflect on the findings in the context of the preparations for the budget for 2012. As an analysis of the first review shows, there have been highly significant achievements to date in respect of the Croke Park agreement. However, acceleration of the process is necessary if the agreement is to be implemented in full, which is of such importance to the well-being of the country. As the Deputy is aware, the agreement was made between the previous Government and the trade unions in the public sector and, obviously, it is important that the Government, for its part, shows a willingness to work with the public sector to achieve the changes and objectives identified. Yesterday I wanted to reassure the Irish Congress of Trade Unions of the Government's full commitment to so doing in an all-island sense because, as the Deputy is aware, it is an all-Ireland body. The economic situation will not be transformed if we pretend to operate from individual sectors only. This is a requirement in respect of which there must be communication, dialogue, discussions and co-operation. The agreement is in situ and there is a strong belief it can be achieved in full. As I want this to happen, I seek an acceleration of the process by which it is to happen in line with the Government's view in this regard and with the co-operation of and goodwill on the part of the trade unions concerned. For my part, I am willing to participate and co-operate in the discussions and discourse on how this is to be achieved because the agreement has been signed off on with set conditions.

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