asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware of the chaotic and rapidly deteriorating situation that arises from the District Court Clerks work-to-rule; and if he will take immediate steps to bring about a solution of this dispute with his Department, so that the exceptional inconvenience to the public may be brought to an end.
Private Notice Questions. - District Court Clerks' Dispute.
I am, of course, aware of the situation arising from the so-called work-to-rule by the provincial District Court clerks and, as I have already said in a public statement, I very much regret the inconvenience caused.
On the basis that the District Court Clerks' Association have called off their work-to-rule to enable discussions on their claim to be resumed, arrangements are currently being finalised for an immediate resumption of the discussions, under the agreed Scheme of Conciliation and Arbitration for the Civil Service. I am confident that, as a result, the situation will be resolved in the immediate future.
Having regard to the fact that proceedings under the agreed scheme are confidential, it would be inappropriate for me to say anything further on the matter at this stage.
Did I understand the Minister to say that the work-to-rule has now been called off?
Yes.
That is very satisfactory. Will the situation be back to normal as from tomorrow?
I understand the situation is all right as from today as reported in today's papers.
Congratulations to Deputy O'Malley.
(Interruptions.)
Will Deputy Davern allow the business of this House to proceed in an orderly fashion?