Deputy G. Fitzgerald has been given permission by the Ceann Comhairle to ask a Private Notice Question on the strike affecting the distribution of fuel supplies.
Private Notice Question. - Fuel Distribution Dispute.
I thank you for the facility to raise this matter of grave national importance. I am asking the Minister for Labour if he will intervene as a matter of urgency in the strike affecting the distribution of fuel supplies in order to protect the national economy.
I have been in contact with the Labour Court and a hearing of this case has been arranged to take place tomorrow. The work stoppage organised by the drivers of these oil tankers could, if prolonged, bring national transport and industry to a halt in a relatively short time. At a time when Irish industry is fighting the effects of the present international recession, a national close-down would be calamitous.
I would urge those concerned to return to work and await the result of the Labour Court hearing tomorrow.
I am glad that my question has brought such prompt action from the Minister and I appreciate his intervention. We hope it will be successful.
The Dáil adjourned at 5.05 p.m. until 3 p.m. on Tuesday, 22nd April, 1975.