Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputies. The Chief Whip informs me that the issue of the childcare protests was not put to the Business Committee as a matter for debate in this House. That would be the best mechanism by which to find time for it. The sections 39 and 56 strike action is planned for 17 October. I believe there is plenty of time between now and then to avoid it happening. Of course the Government wants to avoid it happening. I reiterate that an offer has been made of a 5% pay increase to apply in November, with 3% backdated, and further engagement on more if and when there is a public sector pay deal. We regret that that offer has been rejected. As is always the case, there are means to resolve disputes to make sure they do not happen, including two Government offices, the Workplace Relations Commission and the Labour Court. Using those mechanisms, the strike can potentially be averted. I certainly hope it can be.

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