49 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for the Marine the up-to-date position regarding the payment of pensions and severance payments to former employees of Irish Shipping; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

91 Mr. J. O'Keeffe asked the Minister for the Marine the arrangement which was finally arrived at in relation to the former employees of Irish Shipping Ltd; and if he will make a statement on the matter.

I propose to take Questions Nos. 49 and 91 together. Efforts to establish a framework within which this issue can be progressed are continuing. I am working with Government colleagues to arrive at an equitable solution as soon as possible.