Eugene Regan (Fine Gael)

On the Comhltas Ceoltóirí Eireann issue, I welcome the fact that Comhltas is being supported by the Government. The role it plays in preserving the culture of traditional Irish music is important, and I compliment Senator Labhrás Ó Murchú on his work in the area. As Senator O'Toole said, that issue should not get in the way of the critique of the cutbacks in the summer school grants.

The theme has been touched on by Senator Alex White but there are three articles in The Irish Times with the following headings: Renegotiation of pay deal must be considered — Senator Boyle; National pay deal must be reviewed, Lenihan hints; and Cowen seeks to reassure unions on public service pay deal. I ask the Leader which of those statements is right. We will have a debate tomorrow on the economy but if the Minister for Finance comes in here tomorrow it is important that he is speaking for the Government and not airing his personal views on this important issue. The Government's own adviser, Colm McCarthy, head of the new cost cutting committee, has said that the 6.1% pay agreement——