Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will take Deputy Fitzpatrick's points now. I am familiar with the Deputy's views and he is familiar with mine. I do not in any way doubt the sincerity of anybody who says I should be involved in talks at the moment. That view is further emphasised by the fact we are now in a strike situation whereas we were not the last time we had an exchange. It is a very difficult situation for all public representatives when they see buses closing down and not operating in their area. The Deputy mentioned Drogheda and Dundalk. The Deputy asked me why I will not get involved. One of the reasons, which was addressed on Leaders' Questions today by my predecessor, the Minister, Deputy Paschal Donohoe, is that institutions of the State are available.

The WRC and Labour Court have addressed over 1,000 disputes, not all of this nature and some of a very different sort. They have a very successful record in settling disputes. I am not a mediator. I have no skills in that area at all. My only reason for participating would be because I might, in that situation, be interpreted as bringing the taxpayers' money into the talks. I will not be doing that and I cannot do so.