asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware that the business and good name of the Irish Assurance Company Limited are being seriously affected throughout the country by the unnecessary prolongation of a strike in Portlaoighise, which was caused by the dismissal of an employee who had given long and honourable service, and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I am not aware that the business and good name of the Irish Assurance Company are being affected as suggested by the Deputy. It would not, in my opinion, be desirable that I should interfere in a matter for which the management of the company is responsible as part of its day to day operations.