Is the Private Notice Question withdrawn?
Private Notice Question: - Aer Lingus Dispute.
No, it is not.
,Mr. O'Donnell and Mr. Mitchell asked the Minister for Tourism and Transport if he will (1) outline in detail the steps he has taken so far to avert the strike of the 1,500 clerical and administrative officials of Aer Lingus; (2) the efforts he is now making to ensure that the strike does not drag on indefinitely and to obtain an early resumption of work; (3) the details of the offer made to the employees to endeavour to settle this strike and the communication his Department has had with the Departments of Finance and the Public Service; and (4) to make a full, general statement outlining the Government's position in regard to this strike dealing particularly with the grave consequences likely to follow from this strike to our whole economy.
The parties to the dispute are at present engaged in discussions with the Labour Court who are endeavouring to find a basis for a solution.
In view of the Minister's statement we would not wish to pursue the matter at this stage and we hope there is an early settlement.
When I originally submitted the question I was not aware that talks were pending in the Labour Court.
I wish to query why Private Notice Questions in my name were rejected by you a Cheann Comhairle in view of the urgency of them and the seriousness of the troubles——
We cannot discuss that now.
I want to know how urgent must a matter be before it will be allowed.
We cannot have a discussion on it now.
I have tabled Private Notice Questions about the general availability of licensed shotguns and ammunition——
I have communicated with the Deputy and this is not a matter which can be discussed now.
With the consent of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to raise on the adjournment the general position and the question of control of licensed firearms and ammunition.
I shall communicate with the Deputy during the afternoon.