Results 3,001-3,020 of 19,445 for speaker:Brian Cowen

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: I stated it was important that it be pre-funded, as with all private sector pensions. The issue that arose on this matter was not as contended. The payment was being portrayed as a top-up but it was to meet the statutory requirements given that the annual report was at the end of March, and to indicate the payments that had to be made into the scheme in order to ensure the usual provisions...

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: It was the same CEO-----

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: The problem is that Deputy Shortall continues to interrupt when people reply. I am outlining the situation as it is and, therefore, there is no question of there being any intent to mislead. As we know, since the time in question, Mr. Boucher will not be taking up the option to retire at 55, which means the payment does not have to be made into the pension fund at this time. That is the...

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: Deputy Shortall likes to have a debate rather than ask a question. I have made the point that the payment was into a general scheme. Obviously, it was about making sure there was a sufficient pre-funded pension for Mr. Boucher, who is one of many beneficiaries of the scheme. That is the point I was making.

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: I did not. I do not wish to be-----

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: The other point the Deputy was making was on-----

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: I have already replied to Deputy Gilmore on the other matter. I understand there is a statement by the Minister on that matter today.

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: Sorry?

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: I am sorry about that.

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: Sorry?

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: I believe Deputy Rabbitte, who is a bit of a proletarian himself, would have no problem with that.

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: I did not realise the Labour Party had such sophisticated machinery that it does not believe in trucks anymore. I suppose it has big high ladders and steps. Of course, if one cannot get a crowd, there is no point in getting a truck. On the point raised, in answer to Deputy Gilmore, I have already set out our opposition. I understand a statement has been issued on the matter today by the...

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: At the earliest, it will be late this year.

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: There is no legislation before the Government at all on this matter. I do not accept the contentions or misrepresentations the Deputy is making.

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: There is legislation in preparation.

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: As matters stand, the legislation is being prepared and will be published in 2010.

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: The companies consolidation and reform Bill is a large item of legislation. There is no date for that; it is a consolidated Bill. Regarding the sale of alcohol, I understand this area will be legislated for later this year.

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: There have been no decisions taken in relation to that matter yet, as the Deputy will be aware. Obviously, I am aware that this will be the subject of one of those.

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: When the Government makes a decision in relation to that matter, we will be able to indicate when it will be held.

Order of Business (27 Apr 2010)

Brian Cowen: It is a decision to be taken by Cabinet. We will then indicate when the referendum will be held.