Results 8,501-8,520 of 19,445 for speaker:Brian Cowen

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: The Government has not revisited the matter since that decision was taken.

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: I had a meeting with the incumbent Comptroller and Auditor General, Mr. John Purcell, only yesterday. He outlined to me the outcome of interviews which had taken place for that post. It is a matter for the Oireachtas to decide upon, and the President will make the appointment on foot of that. As a result of that discussion yesterday, I intend to be in touch with the Leader of the...

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: For the purposes of clarification, the same process is being adhered to now as previously. An indication has been given by the outgoing Comptroller and Auditor General that he wishes to retire. Expressions of interest were sought as to who might be interested in taking up the post. I am aware that this is a matter for appointment by the Oireachtas, and as a result of the meeting I had,...

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: It is not possible to indicate at this stage when the enforcement of fines Bill, which is to end imprisonment where practicable for the inability to pay fines and to provide for new ways of enforcing fines, will be brought forward. It is subject to a preliminary stage of examination. On the other issue, I have said every day I am in the House that it is still being considered.

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: It is not related to that matter at all. It is not possible to indicate when it will be brought forward.

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: I understand from the Chief Whip that those three Bills will be taken this session.

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: I do not believe there is one promised. There are obviously issues under discussion with the social partners that we are finding hard to resolve. The issue the Deputy raised is one the HSE feels obliged to deal with under EU competition law. People might have different views on that but that is the basis of its approach. It is not actively seeking to abuse it.

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: To answer the Deputy's question——

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: To answer the question, this issue has been discussed in the social partnership context for some time. It has been indicated that seeking legislation on this matter is predicated on reaching agreement in that context. Members can bring forward legislation without agreement if they wish——

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: That is the view of the Deputy. Perhaps some of the social partners brought that to his attention. For the purpose of trying to bring forward legislation, we discussed the benefits yesterday. The social partners have been trying to achieve consensus, even on the more tricky issues, and the matter in question is still under discussion. The whole process is predicated on trying to reach...

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: I understand the Property Services Regulatory Authority Bill is due for publication this session.

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: I understand the draft heads are being prepared for the criminal justice (cybercrime and attacks against information systems) Bill. I understand the health (information) Bill will be next year.

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: I do not believe there is any proposed legislation on that matter. It would be necessary to talk to the Minister for Foreign Affairs on how it is to be done.

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: Do I take it the Labour Party is opposed to the establishment of a new state in Kosovo?

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: No, I will not withdraw the Bills.

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: No, it is the following week.

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: Absolutely not.

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: I understand the Whips are discussing the prospect of an all-party motion for that purpose.

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: I would need to revert to the Deputy.

Order of Business (24 Apr 2008)

Brian Cowen: The Deputy is referring to the criminal justice (forensic sampling and evidence) Bill to provide for the establishment of a DNA database and related matters. The heads of that Bill have been approved by the Government. It is complex and technical with many aspects to it. Detailed consultations with the Garda authorities and the forensic science laboratory have resulted in some delays. I...