Vol. 492 No. 2
67 Mr. Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance the discussion, if any, he has had with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform on the pay dispute in the Garda Síochána; the new initiative, if any, he plans in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13646/98]
The Government, including the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform and myself, have had the Garda pay dispute continually under review. The Government's position in relation to the matter was set out in some detail in a reply to a question by Deputy Noonan on 28 April last.
Essentially the position is that the pay offer made to the gardaí envisaged ongoing discussions to see what further benefits could be achieved on the basis of productivity and savings. The Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors have taken up this suggestion and talks are proceeding. I would urge the GRA to resume negotiations on this basis. I still feel sure that it represents the best way of getting out of the present impasse as it has the potential for finding a solution which should be acceptable to the Garda associations and to the Government.
Informal contacts are being maintained with the GRA with a view to securing their return to the talks.
