Michael Noonan (Limerick City, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

As I said, while a deal is likely, it is not certain. It has not been concluded. There are significant outstanding matters that have yet to be concluded and they are of sufficient magnitude to derail a deal. There are also some moving parts; therefore, it is not possible for me to discuss the elements of the deal until it has been finalised, which is obvious.

I accept Deputy Sean Fleming's good wishes and acknowledge his concern that we negotiate a deal because the promissory note has been a significant burden on the taxpayer. Relieving the burden of the promissory note would be welcomed by all taxpayers. I am also well aware that there are certain commentators and Deputies in the House who, regardless of whether there is adeal, will spend the next couple of weeks positioning themselves to oppose it, regardless of what is included in it, and to rubbish it, but I cannot control this.

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