Joan Collins (Dublin South Central, Independent) | Oireachtas source

This is a fundamental issue for workers in the retail sector. Dunnes Stores' workers went on strike in 2015 to achieve secure hours and better pay. We should at least give workers a minimum of three hours' work. I cannot see how it would be a huge imposition on the State, even if that was to be the comparison, although I take on board the points made by the previous Deputy. For retail workers, however, this is a very important issue. If one is on a zero hour contract, one is in a very precarious position. Imagine working on a zero hour contract. Would any of us want our daughter or son or even ourselves to be on a zero hour contract where one could be called on at any time and not be given any secure hours? To me, this is a fundamental issue. I would like the Minister to see how we could insert this into the Bill. It is morally wrong and bad employment law.