Nicky McFadden (Fine Gael)

I thank Senator Ryan for sharing time. I seek clarification on two issues. Will gratuities paid to Army personnel be affected by the levy? These people work all their lives serving the State. I also have serious concerns about the position of retained firemen. These are among the low paid public servants to whom Senator Ryan referred. They are heroic men and women who are called out at all hours. Their retainer is low and it would be most unfair if it were levied.

I resent the lecturing of the Opposition during the debate and I am sick of it. Will the Minister of State ask his party colleagues and Senator Boyle to stop lecturing the Opposition because we do not deserve it? As far back as last July, Deputy Bruton made proposals and offered solidarity with wise and good support. Senator Butler referred to the workers in Waterford Wedgwood who will lose their pensions. The company asked the Government for a loan only last year when money was available but it was refused. The Senator should not pay lip service to those who have lost their jobs, given the cost of this to the State.