Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

Senator Walsh used the word "discrimination". The Bill is, in a sense, an act of discrimination because it discriminates or distinguishes between the present and future corps of public servants. This variation of status with regard to extension of service, which is voluntary, is seen as part of the overall set of measures which applies to new entrants. The option has not been created for existing employees. Of course, the Minister is open to examining the creation of that facility for existing public servants and there have been some tentative discussions with the unions about it. However, if we were to take that road there would be problems such as blocked promotional opportunities. It is possible to state a clear rule in this legislation for the future Civil Service and public service. I accept that it devalues somewhat the immediate practical import of this provision because it will not come into operation for a substantial period. However, the Minister is receptive in another context to an approach in this regard.