It is proposed to take business in the following order: Nos. 5, 8—the Votes to be taken in the order in which they appear on the Order Paper—2, 1 and 9 (resumed).
Order of Business.
Is it the Taoiseach's intention to make a statement on the EMS before tomorrow's debate in view of the fact that the White Paper is somewhat out of date since Italy indicated that she will be joining the EMS and the White Paper was published in the belief that we would not be joining?
Before the Taoiseach replies I must point out that there will be a debate on the EMS tomorrow and this should preclude any questions about it today.
I am asking this question to facilitate tomorrow's debate. In view of these new developments will the Taoiseach be making a statement on our position before tomorrow's debate?
I will be making my statement tomorrow at the opening of the debate.
But there will be no statement before then?
I do not anticipate making any such statement.
There has been speculation that Italy was made an additional offer on the one at Brussels. Has any additional offer been made to Ireland as regards our possible entry into the EMS?
I cannot talk on hypotheses on the Order of Business.
I am asking a direct question.
I am not allowing any further questions on EMS because there is a special debate on it tomorrow.
We are starting a debate tomorrow on a White Paper which can only be described as totally inadequate for an intelligent discussion——
The Deputy will have an opportunity of saying that tomorrow.
I am asking the Taoiseach now, to facilitate a proper and informed debate tomorrow, to give us legitimate information before the debate starts. Surely we are entitled to that?
I cannot comment on speculation.
To ask if an additional offer has been made for entry to the EMS is not speculation; it is a straightforward question. It is not speculation to want to know what effect Italy's entry into the EMS will have on the Government's decision.
I have already said that there will be a ten-hour debate on the EMS tomorrow. There is a great deal of other business to be done today and the Chair must get this business through.
Could the Taoiseach tell us what the resumption date after the Christmas Recess will be and/or what the budget date might be?
Not at this stage, but it will be indicated in good time before the adjournment.
When will there be a debate on the White Paper? Before or after the budget?
In the New Year.
When will the Book of Estimates be published?
I am not certain when.
Will it be published before the budget?
In due time before the budget and normal notice will be given to Deputies.
Does that mean before the end of the session?
Not before the end of this session.
Does the Taoiseach intend to allow a debate on the White Paper prior to the budget early next year?
It depends on the date of publication.
Will it be published before the budget?
I would hope so.
Is it intended that it will be published before the budget?
Yes.