David Norris (Independent)

The Leas-Chathaoirleach can certainly ask. My final point concerns perception. Perception means a great deal when one is selling a tough situation. The Minister of State knows this; he is a sophisticated man. No one will believe the Taoiseach's salary cut. It may be 30% but nobody gives a tuppenny damn because it is too late. It may not be too little but timing is all. People are fed up. I would leave it aside. Nobody will be convinced. If he took a 70% cut people would still be on the radio bellyaching. The Government has lost that one. It should not worry about it but should just get on with the job.