Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

Proposals cannot be made in the absence of co-operation from all concerned and a commitment to resolve the problems. Up to now, we have had a stand-off. Indeed, the policy of non-co-operation has been stated on the SIPTU website, even in the aftermath of the Labour Court recommendation. Having got their clarification, it is time for us to get down to discussing the issues to see what can be resolved.

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