Shane Ross (Dublin Rathdown, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I will take the questions in order. I agree that it was a painful strike for some people and that difficult decisions were made. I pay tribute to all sides on reaching an agreement, including the trade unions, employers, the WRC and the Labour Court, where significant efforts and sacrifices were made. That should be acknowledged. It was very difficult for certain people to accept it and they were faced with a difficult situation. I salute them for being able to reach an agreement.

Regarding the issue of a multi-stakeholder forum, it was only last Monday week that the result of the ballot was known. I have every intention of setting up that forum and keeping to that pledge.