Fiona O'Malley (Progressive Democrats)

There was a recognition that the purpose of the Green Paper is to highlight and prepare for a White Paper that will outline policy. As the Minister said in his speech, it is at that point that some opposition might be expected. I made the point that this is an issue which is going to be dealt with by successive Governments. It is not partisan. As a political establishment, I would have thought we would be united on what confronts the country. We are required to look, and this is good planning.

That is why I was amused to hear Senator Twomey say the Government had done nothing for ten years and then quote the former Minister for Finance, Mr. Charlie McCreevy, who made changes in 2003. Senator Ross mentioned that he got no credit for doing it, as no politician ever will for tackling the pensions issue. That may be part of the reason there is no tendency towards long-term planning. To my mind the reason and purpose of politics is to prepare for the next generation so that it is not left with a burden and a legacy. In saying that, because it is an issue that will be dealt with by successive Governments, I would have thought——-