asked the Minister for Labour if he is satisfied with the operation of the Employment Equality Act in relation to equal pay; and if he will introduce new machinery to facilitate its implementation.

The Employment Equality Agency were brought into operation on 1 October 1977. The agency have the function to keep under review the working of the equal pay legislation and, whenever they think it necessary to do so, to make proposals to me for amending the Act. No proposals have been received from the agency so far, and I suggest that, as the body is such a short time in operation, it would scarcely be reasonable to expect them to have concluded a review of the situation or to have proposals ready for submission. The question of introducing new machinery as suggested by the Deputy does not, therefore, arise at this time. The procedures of the Anti-Discrimination (Pay) Act, 1974 are, of course, operating.

Does the Minister not consider that the appeals procedure regarding equal pay claims is inadequate because of a possible conflict within the Labour Court in view of its conciliatory tone? Would the Minister consider setting up a separate section in the Labour Court to deal solely with equal pay claims?

With regard to the Deputy's question concerning changes in the Labour Court, while not pre-empting any decision that may be taken by the Commission on Industrial Relations, this is one of the areas I hope they will look at.

I am calling Question No. 8.

In view of what Deputy Browne has said that there is an urgency in the equal pay situation, will the Minister not agree that there is a need for a separate section?

That question has been asked already.

I am calling Question No. 8.

8.