Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

——an all-day sitting next Thursday to discuss the economy, the recapitalisation of the banks, which Senator Ross mentioned and which is urgently needed, and, as has been mentioned by some Senators, the credit rating of the country, Ireland plc. I will allow as much time on Thursday as leaders require of me for Senators on all sides of the House to make their views known with the Minister present. I am putting the record straight on this.

I listened attentively this morning, as did all Senators, to those representing the various walks of life at the social partnership talks. I do not want to mention anyone who is not in the House, but I have the utmost respect for David Begg. The people of Ireland have his trust 100%. This morning it was stated that for a reduction in wages of about €10 per week, which is about three pints of Guinness — I would not know because I do not drink——