Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

If we do not stay competitive, it would be unfair to ask any nation to single us out for support. It is up to the trade union movement, the other social partners, the Government and everyone else concerned to remain competitive.

In response to Senator Ross, I will endeavour to arrange for the attendance of the Minister for Finance during the debate today on the Bill. I have noted Senator Leyden's comments on the former Taoiseach and have made my opinions known.

Senator Norris called for a debate on hedge funds. I would have no difficulty with his raising the matter with the Minister today and all day tomorrow. If a special debate is necessary, I am sure it can be arranged, given our weekly discussions on the economy.

Senators Mary White and Hannigan discussed taking action regarding the cash flow to private companies, especially small companies. The Government must take the lead and State and semi-State companies must pay on invoices within a reasonable time. None of us or our friends is getting paid on the 30-day mark. Rather, people are getting paid after 45 days. If the State does not pay, it is not taking the lead. Never was that lead more necessary than now, as a business' life blood is its cash flow. We all agree that, for the past 12 months, the banks have not been playing their part——