Vol. 566 No. 3
213 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the steps he is taking to resolve the industrial dispute which has led to the discontinuance of service to farmers in County Limerick and in other areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12906/03]
My Department has endeavoured to limit the impact of this dispute on farmers in the five counties involved. I temporarily suspended the necessity to get advance clearance from the CMMS data for animals intended for local slaughter houses. I am satisfied that other safeguards were adequate because all animals would be subjected to veterinary inspection and other identity checks.
The union is demanding an increase in the number of posts in the staff officer and executive officer grades. Its demand is a cost increasing claim under the Social Partnership agreement. These agreements specifically preclude such claims and any form of industrial action.
The scope for agreeing any deal is limited by the terms of the various social partnership agreements and the need to control public expenditure. At present my Department is examining staffing in local offices. Any reorganisation involving upgrading would have to be dealt with against a background of the continuing need to control public finances. The industrial action is contrary to the general pay agreements.
The actions being taken by CPSU members is damaging and causing unnecessary hardship to the farming community. My Department regrets that its staff are involved in such actions and have requested them to return to work. Today my Department will meet the union to discuss the situation.
