Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

On various occasions when the matter was raised in both Houses during the earlier stages of the dispute, and when the matter was very much in the public eye, I tried to make it clear that the Government's decision would have to be within the parameters of the law. My understanding is that the implications of the redundancy rebate application are currently being considered. No final decision has been made in that regard.

I assure the House that the Government will adjudicate and decide on the matter on the basis of legislation and legal advice that must be obtained to achieve certainty on the issue. I probably gave the impression in the other House and perhaps here that it is open to the Minister to refer the matter to the Employment Appeals Tribunal along the lines suggested by Senator O'Toole. I gave the impression that may be where the decision would be made. I am awaiting legal advice and I am not certain that will be the process. I assure the House that the Government will make a decision on the basis of the legal advice and the provisions of the legislation.