Brian Hayes (Dublin South West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Two issues arise. First, the Bill makes provision for the withdrawal of labour, although I am unsure in which section. This is important. There is a recognition of the need for a cooling down period whereby, if people take this route, they can re-examine the issues and achieve a fair resolution. Notwithstanding any adjudication procedure, every citizen has a fundamental right to take an action if he or she believes that he or she has been unfairly treated. This right exists in this Bill as it does elsewhere. However, section 5 sets out a clear provision in respect of the right to suspend work for non-payment. It is a fundamental part of the legislation.