THE TÁNAISTE rejected an Opposition demand that the Dáil sit next week. Mary Coughlan said the Government’s original proposal was the House would return on January 19th, but it was now proposing that it resume on January 12th, which was much earlier than previous years.

“We have had a considerable number of sittings and a considerable number of Bills have been introduced and dealt with by the House,’’ Ms Coughlan added.

Fine Gael deputy leader Dr James Reilly said everyone in the country who was fortunate to have a job would be working next week. “I see no reason this House cannot continue its work next week and resume early in the new year,’’ he added.

Labour leader Eamon Gilmore said that in normal circumstances, the proposed return date would be acceptable. “However, there is a number of reasons it is not acceptable,” he added. “We are not in normal circumstances.”

Mr Gilmore said the Taoiseach was attending an EU summit and it was normal that he report to the House on it. He suggested the House return for at least a day next week to consider Brian Cowen’s summit report.

Sinn Féin Dáil leader Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin said he did not believe for a moment it was beyond the gift of the Government parties to introduce the Finance Bill with immediate effect.

“They can respond as they please in terms of moving legislation forward to suit the moment and their own interest and that process should commence immediately,” he added. “The citizenry should not have the agony that has been visited on them prolonged.”

Ms Coughlan said it would be erroneous for people to think any member of the House would not be working next week.

“Every member has always performed his or her duties and has always worked up to the last minute,’’ she added. “Equally, the Government will be at work next week.”