Mr. David Joyce:

I would like to acknowledge the work of Deputy O'Reilly in this area. The introduction of that Bill was really important. I also welcome the Minister's signal that he is going to introduce this as part of the broader work-life balance Bill. This is an important issue for us and indeed for unions throughout the world. Deputy Cronin referenced ILO Convention No. 190. We fought long and hard to ensure reference to domestic violence was included in that convention. Article 10 does that and asks member states to take action to recognise the effects of domestic violence and, insofar as reasonably practicable, mitigate its impacts on the world of work. The Department is currently involved in a consultation on ratification of that convention and we will make a submission on that. We welcome the signals that they intend to ratify it before the end of this year. The issue of ten days' leave is welcome. We had detailed discussions with Deputy O'Reilly and the Minister. I agree with Deputy Cronin that, insofar as is practicable, providing proof in this instance is not the way to go.