andMr. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice if he will make a statement on the up-to-date position of the claims by Garda Síochána clerks who are seeking a better deal.

The claims in question are being considered by the Garda Conciliation Council in accordance with the provisions of the Garda conciliation and arbitration scheme. The scheme includes provision for determination of claims by an independent arbitrator in cases where agreement cannot be reached at conciliation. Under the provisions of the scheme, the proceedings of the conciliation council are confidential and accordingly Deputies will appreciate that it would not be in order for me to comment further on the matter.