asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether, in view of the grave injury being caused to the tourist industry by the continuance of the dispute between the Irish Omnibus Company and its employees, he will take the necessary steps to compel the Company to meet representatives of the men's Trade Union to discuss the matters in dispute between the Company and its employees.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Bus Dispute and Tourist Traffic.
I have no such compulsory powers as are suggested.
Will the Minister say if this reply was dictated by the directors of the Irish Omnibus Company?
Are we to understand that the Government are standing behind the directors of this railway-subsidised concern in attempting to dictate to their employees as to what trade union they should join?
No.
What are the constitutional rights of the men?
That is a different question. All that I am asked is will I take the necessary steps to compel the Company to meet representatives of the men's trade union to discuss the matters in dispute. If the Deputy says that he and the rest of the Labour Party want a system of compulsory arbitration in regard to disputes brought in I shall consider that, but in relation to a single dispute, that we should have the enforcement of certain people even to meet certain other people, I cannot consider.
In view of the unsatisfactory answer given by the Minister, I give notice that I shall raise the matter on the adjournment.