Alice-Mary Higgins (Independent) | Oireachtas source

A case was made quite strongly for this. We have just transition funds. This is in a just transition frame, regardless of whether Bord na Móna and ESB like to be at the forefront. They are at the forefront of how we model this as a State. From my perspective it is something we need to look at beyond the existing industrial relations framework. I ask the Department, if it comes in later as a major stakeholder, whether it believes there is an opportunity or need for that commission or stakeholder forum, chaired possibly by the WRC.

Mr. Donnellan specifically mentioned redeployment, namely, 210 redeployment opportunities, and between 200 and 600 what he called new jobs. Why are the 200 to 600 framed as new jobs rather than redeployment? Will they be the same quality of jobs? If somebody has been working for 20 or 30 years with Bord na Móna, is it the case that the company is inviting him or her to apply for these new jobs rather than redeploying that person? There are 210 redeployment opportunities, 100 new direct jobs in renewable energy assets, 100 new jobs in recycling, and 150 to 300 in various green businesses. Why have these been framed as new jobs rather than redeployment?