With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 23, 24 and 25 together. When I met the Commission at their first meeting on 30 May 1978, I said that I envisaged a report being made inside two years. I understand that, as of now, the Commission hope to meet this target.
With regard to an interim report, the position is that on the establishment of the Commission, I suggested that they might prepare an interim report on the institutions for settling disputes. I understand however that, following discussion, the Commission came to the conclusion that it would not be realistic to report on the institutions in advance of their recommendations on industrial relations generally.
Since the Irish Congress of Trade Unions in July last suspended their representation, the Commission have met eight times. It is my hope that congress will reconsider their decision and fulfil their commitment under the National Understanding to continue to work within the Commission. In the meantime the work of the Commission is proceeding.
It would be premature to attempt to indicate action to be taken on the report when it is received. Such action will be decided in the light of circumstances.