Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)

The Deputy is seeking to have me comment on a number of issues that will be discussed in the context of the budget. The matter will be dealt with by the Government by weighing up the evidence in due course. There is no doubt we ought to be extremely careful about anything that adds to the cost of employment. We must ask whether any proposed measure will be effective in reducing absences and dependence on welfare. There are serious issues to be addressed. As I stated in my reply, I will be contributing very much in this regard and examining carefully and evaluating the potential impact on small business and employment. Any decision will have to be taken in a balanced way, bearing in mind all the issues that arise.

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