asked the Minister for Agriculture and Fisheries the steps, if any, he has taken to avert a strike by the Veterinary Union of Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceiseanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Veterinary Dispute.
18.
At a meeting on 16th May I informed the executive committee of the Irish Veterinary Union of the arrangements which I intended to operate in 1975 for the carrying out of blood sampling under the brucellosis eradication scheme and the programme of work under the BTE scheme. These arrangements were decided upon only after prolonged discussions with the union and after taking their views fully into account. In so far as blood sampling is concerned the arrangements represented a considerable modification of my original proposals.
I have been informed by the union that their members, by general ballot, have rejected my decisions and are withdrawing from all State work from Tuesday next, 3rd June. This in my view is an irresponsible step on the part of the union and I am now considering the action which can be taken to minimise the adverse consequences for the cattle industry.
Can we assume that the Minister will do everything in his power to have this dispute settled?
Yes.
Would the Minister not agree that using a word such as "irresponsible" at a delicate time like this is not the best way to promote harmony?
I am sorry that I can find no better word to describe the situation.
Would the Minister agree that there are two sides to the dispute?
Yes and I have listened to both sides for a long time. I can assure the Deputy that I have no particular interest in having a confrontation with the veterinary profession because I have many friends in that profession.