Seanad debates

Wednesday, 8 October 2003

It is important to remember that modernisation was included at the start of the benchmarking process, but it was only one of a number of different factors. It was never seen as a straightforward deal of modernisation for money. It is true that the benchmarking body, when it reported, linked the two by suggesting that the money should only be paid over in the event that flexibility and modernisation in the service was delivered. It is right that this should be the case. It is also right that the verification process should be very open. I welcome what the Minister said concerning the Freedom of Information Act. It is good that we will be able to oversee the verification process. We will know that this process is real because, undoubtedly, cynicism exists. People do not think that the verification process will be real. They think that the money is guaranteed and will be given anyway.

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