14 Mrs. T. Ahearn asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to the fears of the workforce employed in Blindcraft at present; the progress, if any, which has been made in developing a successful restructuring plan for Blindcraft; and when he plans to reappoint the board for the employment of the blind.

I am aware of the concerns of Blindcraft's workforce in regard to the future of its operations. I am at present considering proposals for the revamping of the board's operations with a view to placing it on a sounder commercial footing and restoring the workforce to a five-day working week as soon as possible. When I have completed my consideration of the matter I will arrange for appropriate consultations to take place with the board and the relevant trade unions.

The terms of office of the board for the employment of the blind does not expire until 30 November next. It is my intention that there will be no delay in the appointment of a new board.