Vol. 520 No. 4
3 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach the nature of the understanding between the Government and Deputy Gildea; the written agreement, if any, which exists between the two parties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15755/00]
4 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach the nature of the understanding between the Government and Deputy Foley; the written agreement, if any, which exists between the two parties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15756/00]
5 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach the nature of the understanding between the Government and Deputy Fox; the written agreement, if any, which exists between the two parties; and if he will make statement on the matter. [15757/00]
6 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach the nature of the understanding between the Government and Deputy Healy-Rae; the written agreement, if any, which exists between the two parties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15758/00]
7 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Taoiseach the nature of the understanding between the Government and Deputy Blaney; the written agreement, if any, which exists between the two parties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15759/00]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 3 to 7, inclusive, together.
I have explained in some detail on a number of occasions to the House the nature of the understanding between myself and the Independent Deputies who support the Government. I have also pointed out that there is no written agreement between the Government and these Deputies. I have indicated on a number of occasions that there is no great secret that the Deputies concerned have indicated to me what their priorities are and that I in turn have made it known to the House that it is my intention to deal with these issues over the life of the Government, many of which are reflected in the Programme for Government in any event.
The Deputies have informed this House what these priorities are in some instances and in others they have found other ways of publishing them. The Government has substantially increased expenditure on a whole range of capital programmes and the national development plan has further increased expenditure on these programmes. This will allow Government to accelerate these programmes and complete them earlier than planned.
The House has discussed the national development plan and the priority that this Government has given to roads, water and sewage treatment, education, tourism and rural development within it. Many of the priorities indicated by the Deputies are already priorities for their respective local authorities and some are reflected in the review of the programme for Government and in the national development plan.
Does the Taoiseach anticipate any increase in the number of Deputies to whom these special arrangements might apply?
If any of the members of the Deputy's party want to join up with us, I am always willing to talk to them.
