Medical scientists provide essential diagnostic services for our hospitals and general practice. They are essential workers and are expertly trained. They deliver a 24-7 service 365 days a year. Next Wednesday, in frustration at long-standing pay and career development issues that are affecting recruitment and retention in the sector, they are taking industrial action. They have engaged in negotiations but these have been unsuccessful. The Medical Laboratory Scientists Association, MLSA, which represents medical scientists, is seeking meaningful talks. It should not have come to this. It sends a terrible signal to young people who might be considering entering STEM, or science, technology, engineering and mathematics. What is the Government doing to resolve this dispute as quickly as possible?

Medical scientists are an essential and crucial part of our health service. The Government appreciates the work they do in our laboratories and other facilities around the country. They may not be seen by patients very often but without them, there would be no patient care. It is essential that we support them in their work and recognise their role.

The issue raised by the Deputy is an industrial relations matter and there are mechanisms by which disputes such as this can be resolved. These include the Workplace Relations Commission, WRC, and the Labour Court, which are offices of my Department. Both the WRC and Labour Court would be ready to assist in finding a solution if the various partners want us to intervene.