Paul Coghlan (Fine Gael)

I, too, agree with some of the comments made by Senator O'Toole, particularly on the corporation tax rate and the distraction caused at European level by the French and, perhaps, German tactics. The Taoiseach has been consistent in his approach to safeguarding the best interests of the country and has made it clear that the 12.5% corporation tax is a sine qua non and not up for renewal or negotiation. It may take some time to deal with the issues involved because there are 17 countries involved in the defence of the euro and 27 countries in all in the European Union. With so many states involved, let there be a little patience in dealing with these matters. One cannot attend a one or two-day meeting and have decisions made on all matters. For instance, as has been stated, an interest rate reduction might be in the pipeline, but it will take a little more time to deal with all of the other matters involved. Therefore, we should be patient. We have the utmost confidence in our negotiating team - the Taoiseach, relevant Ministers and the Civil Service. I say let them get on with it. It is an issue to which we can come back if the Seanad is still in being.