asked the Minister for Communications if he has had discussions with An Post on contingency services in the event of interruption of postal supplies; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

The Postal and Telecommunications Workers' Union (PTWU) are in dispute with An Post about the implementation of the terms of a productivity agreement. The Employer — Labour Conference are having discussions with both sides in an attempt to resolve the issue. In the circumstances it would be unhelpful and inappropriate for me to make any further comments at this stage.

I was not asking the Minister about making comments on the dispute. I was asking if he has had discussions with An Post regarding a contingency plan in the event of there being an interruption.

I think that comments on the dispute and any other matters involved with it would be less than helpful at this stage. I hope there will be an announcement of good news later.