Tom Shehan (Fine Gael)

I wish to make reference to the decision of some trade unions, announced at the weekend, to oppose the fiscal treaty. I ask the Leader to write to these unions and to other parties who oppose the treaty and ask the following question. Should Ireland need further assistance from the EU, where do these unions, and others who are against the treaty, suggest that we get the money to fund their members' increments, allowances and wages in the event of the treaty being rejected?

I ask the Leader to invite the Minister for Social Protection to the House to explain the delays of up to 18 months in the awarding of some social protection entitlements. Hundreds of public servants have been transferred from other Departments and areas to the Department of Social Protection, yet the waiting lists are getting longer.