Paschal Donohoe (Dublin Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

We could not have a discussion with the commission without a recognition of the context in which we find ourselves, but I did not raise the matter with it directly because it was never envisaged that the pay commission would deal with issues in the Lansdowne Road agreement. Its terms of reference relate to what will happen after that agreement and the future sustainability of public pay.

As to whether I asked its members for advice, I am not lacking for advice. The challenge is working with everyone to chart a way forward.

I thank the Deputy for his comments on the commission's experience. We have appointed a good group with a mixture of skills and experiences that will serve the State well.

The timescale will be the second quarter, but I will not confirm anything further at this point because I must hold additional discussions with the commission. It will be a demanding schedule, but I first had to undergo a period of consultation to get the commission established before then selecting a panel that would be acceptable to all and recognised in the way that the Deputy has just done.

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