asked the Minister of Labour what action he proposes to take on the representations which have been made to him by the E.T.U. regarding their claims insofar as they relate to the electrical contracting industry.

The terms and conditions of employment in the electrical contracting industry are a matter for settlement by the constitutional machinery of the industry. The services of my Department have been offered to the parties to facilitate joint discussion.

Is there not some dissatisfaction at the delays which have taken place in regard to these negotiations?

I think one side or the other is often dissatisfied at delay, but, in this case, apparently, there is a real difference of opinion between the parties. They are making an effort to solve it themselves. We have offered assistance, but we still hope that they will be able to settle it themselves.