Kathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)

Yes. The NTPF is independent in its negotiations. The situation poses difficulties. As I outlined, the winding down of one operation and the starting of another would be a clear separation, although I am not saying that this is justification. I do not dispute the Senator's assertion, but there must be other instances of the like around the country. We do not want to set a precedent by entering into a special arrangement with one provider, as all other providers would expect the same treatment.