In the context of the dispute in Dunnes Stores, recently in the House the Tánaiste promised legislation on collective bargaining. I recall that when the Taoiseach was in the US recently he suggested to the business community there that if they had any issues they might give him a telephone call.

Given that it will take some time to bring the legislation on collective bargaining before the House, is there any chance the Taoiseach might lift the telephone, ring Margaret Heffernan and try to do something to resolve that particular dispute?

I advised them to ring me last year and they are calling in huge numbers.

That is good.

What about the people with variable rate mortgages? Did they ring the Taoiseach?

The question of collective bargaining is one with which the Government will deal in the not too distant future. In the meantime, the Minister of State, Deputy Gerald Nash, is dealing with the Low Pay Commission and work in that respect with regard to the minimum wage. I hope this matter can be resolved. There are other retail outlets where short-hour working applies also. In fairness, clarity should be provided to workers as to the hours and conditions under which they work. I will advise Deputy Ó Fearghaíl of the progress in respect of collective bargaining.