asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce if he is aware that a trade dispute exists between the firm of Messrs. Henderson and Eadie, woollen manufacturers, Collooney, Co. Sligo, and the Irish Transport and General Workers' Union of which the employees are members; that the employees are now on strike, and whether steps were taken by his Department to arrange a conference between the parties to the dispute, and, if so, with what result; and further if he will take steps to see that any Government contracts already placed with the firm are suspended pending investigation.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sligo Trade Dispute.
I am aware that a trade dispute exists between the firm of Messrs. Henderson and Eadie, woollen manufacturers, Collooney, County Sligo, and the Irish Transport and General Workers' Union, and I am aware that the employees have been on strike for a considerable time. My Department has invited both parties to a joint conference to be presided over by an official of the Department, but one of the parties refuses to come to such a conference. No Government contracts for material are held by this firm.
Will the Minister say which of the parties refused to enter the conference?
That is a separate question.
Will the Minister deny that it is the employers who are responsible for refusing to attend the conference?
The Minister will not deny anything.