Micheál Martin: “It went through a lot of interactions before that, which could have been quicker, in my view, on the part of the…”

I do not believe the basis exists for industrial action. I don't believe the public should have to endure that, because there have been significant tax cuts in the Budget, which will help workers.

What we're witnessing is growth in expenditure.

The rate of growth is declining. But to use words like ‘brutal’ is completely over the top, if you don't mind me saying so, and a gross exaggeration.

I've made my position clear in terms of where I think there can be derogations, and there doesn't need to be a picket.