Alan Kelly (Tipperary North, Labour) | Oireachtas source

On the Deputy's last point, discussions on that issue are under way and I will inform the Deputy of the outcome when I know it. The solution that has been put in place, namely, the negotiated agreement, has had a dramatic impact and the statistics prove it. That said, I agree with the Deputy that the figure that pertains is still of concern. I will consider whether a further agreement is feasible. I will examine the contributions that could be made, including whether we can increase the level of funding involved. I will make a decision then whether we should proceed with another negotiated agreement or go down another avenue entirely, possibly involving the imposition of a levy or some other measure. That will be up for discussion in the very immediate future.

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