asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he received from the Trades Councils in Dundalk, Drogheda, and Ardee, representations concerning the dispute at Ardee Mental Hospital; whether he is aware that these councils invited his Department to intervene with a view to a settlement of the dispute; whether it is a fact that these representations were not acknowledged; and, if so, whether he will state if it is the intention of his Department to avail of the invitation extended to him.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Ardee Mental Hospital Dispute.
I have received representations from the Trades Councils in Dundalk, Drogheda and Ardee concerning the dispute at the Ardee Mental Hospital and I am aware that these councils invited my Department to intervene with a view to a settlement of the dispute. These representations were acknowledged, but on the question of intervention in the dispute I would refer the Deputy to my reply to him in this House on the 8th instant to the effect that the Committee of Management of the Ardee Mental Hospital could not see their way to accept an invitation to a joint conference issued by my Department.