James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I can provide the Deputy with the legal interpretation of what this means, at a later date but before Report Stage.

Second, on Deputy Kelleher's contention about being able to hire and fire at will, natural justice applies in this country and it would be a serious matter for a Minister or anyone else to behalf in the way he outlined because one would be leaving oneself open to legal challenge. A Minister would always act with responsibility in these matters because he or she is open to challenge. We all will be aware that there is much history of persons going to court over unfair dismissal, constructive dismissal and various other types of dismissal. I do not think that is a concern and I am not accepting the amendment.