The Taoiseach said he would consider a special debate next week on the threatened nurses' strike.

Mr Ahern was replying to the Fine Gael deputy leader, Mrs Nora Owen, who asked if the Taoiseach would allocate Government time for a debate and an outline of the Government's contingency plans.

She urged the Taoiseach to instruct the Minister for Health to stop using a megaphone in dealing with the dispute, adding that he should engage in meaningful consultations with the nurses.

The Labour leader, Mr Ruairi Quinn, asked if the Government was drafting emergency legislation to ensure the continuation of essential medical services in the State.

Mr Ahern said no such legislation was planned.