David Cullinane (Sinn Fein)

Will he give a commitment to take statements on a number of important issues? For example, a number of Members called for statements on the retail sector. I strongly believe that sector will have its toughest year in 2012. The 2% VAT increase will devastate many small shops across the State.

We all sympathise with the workers in Vita Cortex but the problem is once inability to pay clauses are inserted in legislation, these problems are created. Let us remember that the Government plans to include similar clauses in changes relating to joint labour committees. Members must be clear about they are voting for when they are in government. Some Government representatives spoke passionately about what is happening in this area but they should also remind themselves of what they voting for when such legislation is brought forward.