On a number of occasions, I and my Labour Party colleagues have argued in favour of allowing Permanent Defence Forces Representative Association, PDFORRA and representatives of the Defence Forces to have rights similar to trade unions, including membership of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, which has agreed in principle to accept PDFORRA as a member. This would bring Ireland into line with many other north European countries and would give our Defence Forces personnel access to the industrial relations machinery of the State for issues relating to pay and conditions. When I asked about this in September, the Tánaiste told me that the issue was under consideration by the Minister for Defence. Two months later, we now need a definitive answer. Will the Taoiseach, as Minister for Defence, approve the affiliation of PDFORRA with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, ICTU?

That matter is still under consideration. As he will be aware, PDFORRA which represents the rank-and-file in the Defence Forces wants this while the Representative Association of Commissioned Officers, RACO, which represents officers, is opposed to it. We have to listen to both sides of that debate from within the Defence Forces. There is also a European social committee ruling that we must be bear in mind as well. It is under consideration and we hope to come to a decision on it before Christmas.