Donie Cassidy (Fianna Fail)

It is the life blood of the economy. I congratulate Senator Mary White on her determination that the Government should pay its bills 15 days after they are due. That will be enormously helpful. Senator Quinn, the most successful person in this House by a mile, has outlined to the House the importance of extending VAT payments by 30 days. I fully support his request and agree with him. I welcome the Taoiseach, who played a leading role in making this happen, committing to the Government paying bills within 15 days. It will be very helpful to everyone, particularly to those in small and medium-sized and family businesses who are so hard-pressed.