asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he is aware that, owing to the strike at the corn and flour mills in Ballina, County Mayo, farmers in the vicinity have to convey their corn and wheat to mills at Ballisodare, County Sligo, a considerable distance from Ballina, imposing great hardship on the farming community affected and also considerable loss and suffering to other people connected with the strike; and, if so, whether he proposes to ask the Labour Court to hold a sitting with a view to the settlement of the strike as carly as possible.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Strike in Ballina Mill.
I am aware that certain inconvenience is being caused to farmers and other persons in Ballina by the strike at two milling firms in Ballina. The services of the Labour Court and of the conciliation officers attached to the court are at the disposal of the parties to the dispute. Both parties are aware of this, but I have no power to compel any union or employer to make use of the services of the court or to accept any recommendations which may be issued by it.