Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 May 1986

Vol. 366 No. 9

Written Answers. - Agricultural Officers Dispute.

41.

Mr. M. Ahern

asked the Minister for Agriculture if he is aware of the serious development in agriculture as a result of the strike of agricultural officers in his Department and the strike notice that was served by the Union of Professional and Technical Civil Servants over delayed implementation of special arbitration awards some of which are outstanding since October 1983; if he is further aware that headage payments to farmers and the intervention mechanism for beef and dairy products is being seriously disrupted; if he has any plans in the Department to ensure that these schemes are not disrupted; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

94.

Mr. J. Leonard

asked the Minister for Agriculture if he will outline his contingency plans for the handling of agricultural produce in the event of an escalation of the present strike.

Minister for Agriculture (Mr. Deasy)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 41 and 94 together.

Industrial action has been taken by a number of agricultural inspectors and officers in my Department who are members of the Union of Professional and Technical Civil Servants. The reason for the dispute is the implementation of certain arbitration findings involving staff in a number of Departments including my Department.

The Minister for the Public Service is having talks with the union today in an effort to resolve the dispute. In the circumstances it would not be proper for me to make any further statement at this stage.