asked the Minister for Economic Planning and Development if any acceptance of the Green Paper work sharing proposals have been found with the social partners; and the Government's intentions in respect of work sharing proposals.

The proposals on work sharing were raised in my discussions with the social partners following publication of the Green Paper. There was a general acceptance that these proposals provided a basis for measures which could make a useful contribution to the creation of more jobs. It was recognised, however, that any such measures would have to be adopted on a gradual basis because of the adjustments that might be required. The Government's policies on work sharing will be outlined in the White Paper on National Development which is due for publication in the immediate future. In preparing these policies the views of the social partners are being taken into account.