asked the Minister for Justice if he will make a statement on the present position regarding negotiations with the medical profession concerning fees for the taking of blood and urine specimens under the Road Traffic Act, 1968 (Part V) Regulations 1969.

22.

andDr. O'Connell asked the Minister for Justice whether he now proposes to examine and to deal with the Irish medical unions claim for all services provided for Garda personnel by the medical profession in addition to the separate question of fees payable under the Road Traffic Act, 1968 (Part V) Regulations, 1969.

With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 21 and 22 together.

Discussions have taken place on three occasions with the Irish Medical Association and the Medical Union regarding the general claims which cover all medical services rendered for the Garda Síochána, including the taking of blood/urine specimens under Part V of the Road Traffic Act, 1968.

Arrangements are in train for further discussions in the near future.