Limerick East): The Deputy will appreciate that the industrial relations process involves trade unions from time to time pursuing issues under threat of industrial action. Such issues may be national claims, local claims or even individual grievances and the nature of industrial action may vary up to and including strike action.
Over the past six months a number of groups have balloted for strike action. These included nurses, ambulance personnel and certain paramedical grades. I understand that laboratory technicians, radiographers and certain catering staff have also balloted for strike action. I would appeal to all groups to use the industrial relations machinery available to them.
I also understand that the Health Service Employers' Agency is continuing discussions with unions representing health personnel and it would be inappropriate for me to make any further comment at this stage.