Paul Kehoe (Wexford, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This is not my scheme; this is a scheme for the representative associations, namely PDFORRA and RACO. I very much welcome the report by Mr. Barry. Both representative associations have been seeking changes to the conciliation and arbitration scheme for the past 15 years. In 2016, when this matter was brought to my attention at the PDFORRA conference, representatives stated they had considerable concerns and reservations about the current scheme.

I then set about considering what was the best way to address the concerns of both PDFORRA and RACO. I decided to appoint an independent person to look at the current scheme. Mr. Gerald Barry examined it and I want both organisations to implement his report because it contains really good recommendations. It addresses the concerns and was welcomed by both PDFORRA and RACO. It is now up to the associations, in conjunction with my Department and the military, to accept this and move on. I was asked to appoint an independent chairperson. When the facilitator concludes all the work, I want to, and will, appoint an independent chairperson of the conciliation and arbitration scheme.

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