Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 21 March 2013
106. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Skills his views regarding the proposed changes to the substitution cover under the Croke Park II agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14467/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe proposals put forward by the Labour Relations Commission on an extension to the Croke Park Agreement arise from an intensive and difficult set of negotiations between the Public Services Committee of ICTU and the Government. These negotiations took place against a backdrop of continuing significant difficulties in the finances of the State.
The public service trade unions are currently considering the outcome of these negotiations. Their members now have an important decision to make and in my view, it is better for us all to allow them the time and space to reflect and come to that decision without any perceived pressure from any side. In light of that, I do not think that it would be helpful to this ongoing process for me to comment or elaborate upon proposals which were carefully constructed by the LRC.
