Michael McCarthy (Labour)

I support the fact the Leader has organised a debate on stem cell research. I also support the calls for the Tánaiste to come into the House to engage with Members in questions and answers at the conclusion of the debate. The Tánaiste will make a major decision on 26 or 27 November in Brussels. That decision will allow European Union taxpayers' money to be spent on embryonic stem cell research. I believe, and it has been the contention of many Members in recent weeks, that there is no clear mandate from either House of the Oireachtas on this issue. I thank the Leader for organising that debate.

I cannot accept criticism of the trade unions in regard to benchmarking. We must not lose sight of the fact that is a contract that was negotiated by the Government and the trade unions.