asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that there is a strike in progress on the works of the proposed regional sanatorium at Merlin Park, Galway, and if he will have it terminated by sanctioning the payment of rates of wages similar to those paid in Galway City.

I am aware that there is a strike in progress at the site of the proposed regional sanatorium at Merlin Park, Galway. The matter is still under consideration, and I would suggest that the Deputy should repeat his question in a week's time.

Is the Minister aware that the site of the works for the proposed sanatorium is in the area within which rates of wages similar to those operating in Galway City are paid, and that such rates are paid in that area by the Master Builders' Federation? The strike should be brought to an end immediately by the payment of these rates.

I am aware of that fact. Of course, that is one of the points we shall take into consideration when the matter is being considered.

Will the Minister endeavour to have the strike settled before Christmas?

I shall be glad to answer that question more fully next week if the Deputy puts down another question. I should not like to say anything more than I have said at the moment.