asked the Minister for the Public Service if he will give details of all arbitration awards that have been signed by the arbitrator; and the Government's intentions on the awards.

I take it that the Deputy is referring to outstanding awards that have been signed by the arbitrator but not yet paid. In this context I would refer the Deputy to my reply to his Parliamentary Question for priority answer on Thursday 12 December 1985 which gave details of awards made but not paid. As the Deputy is aware, I have recently concluded a series of negotiations with certain public service groups which resulted in a package of proposals covering the 25th round and other pay related matters. The unions concerned have agreed to consider, in accordance with their union procedures, the package of proposals. Pending the outcome of such consideration the Deputy will appreciate that it would be inappropriate for me to express any views on this matter.

That was a lovely reply. May I take it that all the arbitration awards that were signed will be paid under the terms of the agreement offered to the public service unions?

Yes.

Is the Minister aware that his serious mishandling of the teachers' arbitration award will result in widespread industrial strife? What proposals has the Minister to solve this problem before there is disruption in our schools

This is clearly a separate question.

It is relevant to the question before the House. I have asked very few supplementaries today and I consider this an important one. Will the Minister make a statement to the House on this matter.

My answer is no.

The Minister is prepared to permit industrial chaos to prevail

I am not aware of that.