Derek McDowell (Labour)

I know we have drifted somewhat, but we are discussing a fairly general recommendation regarding an important section of the Bill. There is probably more sense in trying to elucidate something of the Minister's attitude to these issues, rather than moving rapidly through a list of recommendations we know the Minister will reject. Senator Higgins and I have read his lengthy scripted speeches delivered at the Select Committee on Finance and the Public Service and in the Dáil, so we know what he is going to say. It is perhaps better to spend the time trying to find out his attitude for the future.

I will not dwell on historical facts, but I am interested in the Minister's references to the stability and growth pact. It appears that he is being unduly careful, certainly in the scripted comments made over the past few years.