Noel Dempsey (Meath West, Fianna Fail)

It may be the answer but it may also cause a greater problem at the end of the day. A difficulty arises in respect of "no strike" clauses. As I stated earlier, we have chosen the route of partnership and have set up various mechanisms in this regard. We now have in place as fine an industrial relations machinery as any state. We have chosen the route of partnership rather than the introduction of draconian legislation. However, instances like this give rise to questions such as those raised by Deputy O'Dowd and others in respect of the provision of essential services. We need to put in place legislation to deal with the taking of unofficial action in this regard.

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