Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)

As the Deputy knows, the question of agency workers is under the aegis of social partnership discussions, which are ongoing. That is the forum in which discussions can and are taking place to see in what way it could be possible to progress the issue to everyone's satisfaction. I suggest that these discussions must take place and we must continue with them to ensure progress can be made.

As the issues arise in the Social Affairs Council they will have to be dealt with by the line Minister in terms of the monthly meetings. I cannot give a commitment on the area until such time as the social partners have discussed the matter further and we can see what way to proceed.

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