I propose to take Questions Nos. 7 and 20 together.
Work is progressing in my Department on establishing the special unit signalled in the Programme for Government to assist the social partners in developing improved management-employer relationships at the level of enterprise. In line with the partnership approach, the social partners are being asked to supply a guiding input to the work of the unit.
An objective of the unit's work is to encourage greater management/labour co-operation in the management of change so that confrontation is avoided. Following the recent dispute mentioned by Deputy O'Rourke, ICTU made a suggestion for a mechanism to be put in place to identify companies at risk from competitive forces. An early warning process is in existence and is under constant review to ensure its effectiveness. However, I am in contact with both ICTU and IBEC, as well as with State agencies, about establishing a liaison group to advise on particular areas of industry where adjustment to competitive pressures and threats is required. This could be the most effective way of anticipating, in so far as can be done, what must be addressed in particular areas of business so as to adapt and prosper.