Jonathan O'Brien (Cork North Central, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I have a number of questions. In respect of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and particularly around the area of chemical substances, we have certain obligations under EU law in respect of REACH and CPL. There is the Chemicals Act 2008 and it is the responsibility of the HSA to oversee the operations of the Acts, if not their enforcement because I think that falls under the remit of four or five other bodies. If one does not have that level of expertise, it will impact on operating those Acts. While I do not want to put words in anyone's mouth, if we do not have the personnel to oversee the operation of those Acts to fulfil our obligations, workplace safety has diminished. Could Mr. Horgan comment on this?

My other question relates to a report by the Institute of Employment Studies that was commissioned by the HSA to look at construction workers, particularly overseas construction workers given that there was a higher number of accidents in this group. What were the workings of that report? What measures were put in place?

We have seen many developments relating to the issue of bullying, particularly in the education sector. What is the situation in terms of the workplace? How significant an issue is it? I know the HSA has a role in respect of that.

I do not know if Mr. Horgan can comment on the area of corporate manslaughter but if he can, I would appreciate it. We do not have any legislation in this area and it is something that my party and I have long called because I honestly believe there is a need for it. I will not name any companies and individuals but we have seen court cases involving companies that have caused the death of workers through their own negligence but have not been held responsible for it. I am not too sure whether Mr. Horgan can comment on this issue but if he can, I would appreciate some comments on the introduction of legislation around corporate manslaughter.