Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)

It is not clear that the provisions in the chapter will provide for changes in work practices or reorganisation. However, if they do, there is established arbitration and conciliation machinery in the Department, which has worked well down the years and which is available to be used. I share the concern of Senator Maurice Hayes that is not essential as a matter of legislative practice to insert a statutory right of consultation. I do not want that to take from the Department's good relations with the relevant representative associations. While the conciliation and arbitration machinery is available to be used, if required, it is not clear it is required and, therefore, for that reason, I do not see a strict requirement for the amendment. I am not aware that concerns have been expressed about work practice changes as a result of the legislation.