Martin Mansergh (Tipperary South, Fianna Fail)

Yes, but the subsequent flow of revenue showed that we had exhausted revenue. While one certainly can increase rates, that does not mean one necessarily will accrue more revenue as a result. I fully agree with most of Senator Alex White's comments in that the issue of public service reform is complex and, in some ways, the Bill reflects the complexity of the public service. Moreover, it is far better to have discussions and negotiations between employers and employees. I have no idea when precisely or in what form dialogue will resume, but it, undoubtedly, must do so sooner or later, preferably sooner. Certainly, I fully accept what the Senator said about trade union leaders, as, notwithstanding one or two isolated remarks by particular trade unionists, I do not believe trade union leaders are whipping up sentiment. I fully agree with the Senator in that regard and have a belief, certainly until demonstrably shown to the contrary, in the fundamental responsibility and good sense of most trade union leaders. I believe that was the spirit in which they entered these discussions-----