Terry Leyden (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

The Minister might be worn down yet. I have never heard such a strong view being expressed by Senators in a most detailed way. The Minister is very reasonable and has knowledge. He said we must take his word for it and accept how he feels about it. However, as Senator Craughwell said, we do not know who will be here in ten years' time. A future Minister might say it is a wonderful opportunity to charge for everything and make money to pay for all the services. This Minister will work Deputy Bruton's Bill. Somebody discussing this in 20 years' time might say the Minister, Deputy Bruton, said all these nice things when he introduced the Bill, and the reply will be that Deputy Bruton has no say in it.

I have a suggestion to avoid a vote on the issue, and save the Labour Party any embarrassment. I am surprised the Labour Party is not contributing anything on the Bill. As a SIPTU member I give the union and ICTU great credence. The union members are reasonable people and are just making a point. The Minister's point is also reasonable. I suggest that on Report Stage he put what he has said here in legislative form. We will accept his bona fides on what he is trying to achieve in that regard. It is reasonable and would ensure nobody will ever abuse the views the Minister has expressed here today.