James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)
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Question 323: To ask the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there is an ongoing industrial dispute at a number of local welfare offices which is inconveniencing the general public; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20896/08]

Mary Hanafin (Dún Laoghaire, Fianna Fail)
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The Civil Public and Services Union is currently in dispute with my Department in relation to a claim for the extension of the flexible attendance bands. The industrial action being taken involves non co-operation with lunchtime opening in the Department's local offices and a ban on answering phones at lunchtime.

I regret the inconvenience to the public arising as a result of the industrial action. Every effort is being made by the Department to bring about a resolution of the dispute. Arrangements are currently being made for a facilitation process in the Labour Relations Commission.