Maurice Cummins (Fine Gael)

If we can raise the matter with the Minister in question, we will do so because there should be the minimum of red tape to ensure job protection. If the banks are not co-operating, something must be done about the matter.

I do not accept the amendment proposed by Senator Thomas Byrne. We have no intention of delaying the jobs initiative as enunciated in the finance Bill. I am satisfied sufficient time has been allocated today for Committee Stage. If not, I can come back into the Chamber at a later stage and extend it, if possible. I allowed three hours for the debate yesterday, but by 5 p.m. there were no further speakers. Luckily, the Minister of State took a half an hour to finish. The record shows that the debate lasted until 5.30 p.m., but we ran out of speakers at 5 p.m. Therefore, I will take no lectures on the allocation of time.