Vol. 487 No. 1
78 Mrs. Owen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she intends to use section 38(2) of the Industrial Relations Act, 1990 to request the Labour Relations Commission or any other body or person to conduct an inquiry into the Ryanair dispute; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3526/98]
I very much regret that the dispute between Ryanair and some of its ground handling staff is continuing. Unfortunately, the dispute has been characterised by claim and counter-claim from the respective parties to the dispute. The most important thing at this stage is to establish the facts, and to find a way forward so that the dispute can be resolved as soon as possible.
My Department is in ongoing contact with all parties involved in the dispute with a view to finding the means towards a resolution. The Minister Deputy Kitt in particular has been unstinting in his efforts in this regard. In addition, the chairperson of the Labour Court has indicated that the Court "will continue to keep the matter under review and is prepared to facilitate the parties in any way it can to assist in resolving the dispute".
I would have no hesitation in utilising powers available under section 38(2) of the Industrial Relations Act if I thought that this would be likely to produce a positive response. I will continue to keep this possibility under active review. I would again urge both sides to reflect carefully on the best means to achieving progress towards settlement.
