Mary Coughlan (Donegal South West, Fianna Fail)

I acknowledge the Labour Party leader's comments on the talks in Northern Ireland. We all agree on wishing those involved well.

As regards the pay reductions that have taken place within the public service, all of us who work with public servants daily are aware of the anger, disappointment and distress these have caused. It is equally important to say that these difficult decisions had to be made on the basis of the economic difficulties the country has to grapple with currently. Dealing with the stabilisation of our public finances is one of the parameters by which we can return to economic growth. We are aware that notification has been given of industrial action. If necessary, the Government will certainly be open to any opportunity to discuss those issues with the relevant representatives. However, all of that would have to be in the context of meaningful engagement and the creation of conditions for meaningful engagement would be equally important.

I note that the Deputy raised the HSE issue with the Taoiseach last week. Unfortunately, his letter to the Deputy has not yet been signed as he has not been available to do so. On the Taoiseach's behalf, however, I can say that following the matter raised by the Deputy, the HSE has advised that this circular was sent in error.

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