With your permission, a Leas-Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 125 and 126 together.
The Irish Medical Union has made representations to me concerning the conditions of service of doctors in the Army Medical Corps and has requested an interview with officers of my Department regarding the matter. Pending clarification of the position regarding members of the medical profession in other areas of the public sector, it would not be practicable for me to reach a decision on these matters. Accordingly the union was informed that a discussion could not serve any useful purpose. As soon as it is possible for me to reach a firm conclusion, I shall get in touch with the union.