Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

It was implied that senior civil servants have a negative influence on the Minister and me. The suggestion that we are being led blinkered into taking a dangerous position has upset both of us. When asked yesterday to consider this proposal, I did not commit to giving it serious thought. Nevertheless, both the Minister and I considered the matter overnight. Whereas the Minister has had a long and varied career in politics, I am only commencing mine. Both of us, however, were moulded in a difficult school and have been around for a while. The saying regarding the old dog for the hard road could apply as we believe it does not always pay to take the easy option and sometimes passion, irrespective of how articulately expressed, does not necessarily guarantee great wisdom. If one stands back from an issue, one may get a much clearer view.

Having reflected on the amendment, we are not in favour of any change. I implore the Leader, regardless of the outcome, not to fling herself through the window.