asked the Minister for Education if he is aware of the possibility of examinations being affected by the industrial dispute of the AUEW (TASS) in regional technical colleges and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I am aware of the existence of an industrial dispute. Negotiations are proceeding in the matter and a conciliation conference was held by the Labour Court on Thursday, 17 May 1979. Negotiations have not yet been completed.

Is the Minister aware that there will be disruption in colleges and that examinees may be affected by the dispute? Will the Minister, as a matter of urgency, take steps to ensure that there is an amicable conclusion to the dispute?

We are using the services of the Labour Court in the matter and I hope that there will-be an amicable settlement.