In view of the fact that this dispute has gone on for over seven years, of the bitterness that exists among the workforce in Waterford, and of the damage to the local economy, is there any mechanism by which the Minister could order a public sworn inquiry, or any formal inquiry by members of his Department? If so, would he order such an inquiry?

The most extensive inquiry I can order would be one under the provisions of section 24. That took place already almost 12 months ago. I will examine the matters raised. As Deputies representing Waterford will know, there is no easy answer to this dispute. Almost every channel has been tried, some of them several times over the last seven years within the terms of office of three successive Governments. If anybody can give me any assistance, I will investigate the matters raised to ascertain whether there is anything further we can do.

Just to clarify matters for the people of Waterford, is the Minister saying that there is no mechanism whereby he or any other Minister can order a public sworn inquiry into this matter?

I do not believe I can do so on an industrial relations matter. But the inquiry held under section 24 is one not dissimilar to what the Deputy is requesting. The Deputy will be familiar with the findings of that inquiry. There have also been the normal rights commissioner's investigations and inquiries, and the Labour Court's efforts in this regard have been extensive over the years. As I said in my reply, in view of the damage being done to the commercial life of Waterford port — and here I accept what the Deputies representing the area have said — I would urge the parties involved to continue their efforts to find a solution. We can never give in in trying to resolve a dispute. If there are some constructive suggestions advanced that I can usefully follow up with all the mechanisms of the State available to me, I will be glad to do so.