David Norris (Independent)

I strongly support Senator Cannon on this issue. It is unlikely the Minister will accept this recommendation because there are political aspects to it but at least this debate will signal to the incoming Government that this must be done in the Finance (No. 2) Bill. It unfairly singles out particular pension contributors and triggers them into this position simply because their employers make a contribution. That is obviously unfair. It revolts reason and any sense of equity.

I have a briefing all of which I will not put on the record because we want to get on to other matters and the timescale is short but it can be done simply. It requires very little in terms of tweaking and would have no further knock-on effect on other legislation. Those are all good reasons, and I strongly support Senator Cannon.

The principle here is in absolute agreement with a later recommendation of mine which is related but which we may not reach today, that is, it looks after people who come in at or under the minimum requirements for the State's old age pension. To impose this full charge would be iniquitous.

I read the Minister's speech. I did not see any reference to it in the Seanad but I understand this proposal may have had some tweaking in the other House. I would be interested if the Minister could tell me, perhaps privately later or whatever, if that is the case or could indicate to me now. I will be putting my amendment on this matter before the House on Report Stage.