The Expert Panel was established following consultation between my Department, the Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation, IBEC and ICTU. In an effort to broker a compromise the Panel was asked to carry out an investigation of how the industrial relations issues relating to the scheme might be resolved. It has given an update to the Departments on its progress and is continuing to work intensively on the matter and it is due to report again shortly. I have emphasised the need for the parties to put all their efforts into engaging with the Expert Panel. It is important that the Panel's work be allowed to continue without interference.