Tom Morrissey (Progressive Democrats)

I second the amendment moved by Senator Mansergh. The Progressive Democrats accept that the benchmarking agreement is a solemn, binding contract between the Government and the social partners. If we were to walk away from the deal at this stage, we would be inviting the unions which represent thousands of public and civil servants to hold the Government in breach of contract and we would have to take the consequences of social unrest. We cannot unilaterally walk away from such an agreement. What would we say if the unions decided to walk away? Agreements are made by two parties and this agreement will be honoured by the Government.