andMr. O'Toole asked the Minister for Health if he is aware that certain female attendants (details supplied) employed by the North Western Health Board area are aggrieved by the fact that despite having the same job description they are being paid less than their male counterparts in breach of equality legislation, and if he will state the action he proposes to take in the matter.

Discussions regarding the Anti-Discrimination (Pay) Act, 1974, have taken place between the unions representing female attendants and the Local Government Staff Negotiations Board representing the health boards. Arising from these discussions there have been negotiations at local level throughout the country aimed at implementing the provisions of the Act in cases where it would be appropriate to do so.

At the request of the unions concerned a further general meeting has been arranged for Tuesday, 27 March 1979 in Dublin to discuss progress and to identify and resolve problems.