asked the Minister for Labour if, in view of the gravity of the current oil and petrol dispute, he will make a statement indicating the action the Government are now taking to deal with the situation.
Private Notice Questions. - Oil and Petrol Dispute.
The Government, having considered the situation which has developed in this dispute, issued a formal request last night to both parties to enter into direct negotiations immediately without preconditions. The Ministers for Finance and Labour are having discussions this afternoon with the petrol and oil industry employers arising from the Government's request. In the circumstances it would be inappropriate to make any further statement on the matter at this stage.
Does the Minister of State intend to make a statement to the House if there are developments this afternoon in this regard?
The Ministers are having discussions at this stage and it would be inappropriate for me to make any statement now about what they may do later on.
I have granted permission to Deputy Michael Keating and Deputy Jim O'Keeffe to ask the Minister for Justice a Private Notice Question.