Louise O'Reilly (Dublin Fingal, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I have two remaining questions. There is much chat in the media now and two very contrasting and contradictory views, some coming from business representatives and some coming from the trade unions. The trade unions have published a document attempting to bust the myths. There is much talk about the impact of Government policy. The changes are positive and I do not think anyone on either of the debate is saying the changes should not be made. I ask about the impact that Government policy on entitlements for workers is having on businesses. I ask for the witnesses’ opinion with regard to those companies that have availed of SCARP. Is it their impression that Government policy interventions are having a detrimental impact? If that is the case, do they feel a bespoke and time-limited support could be put in place for those sectors? I note hospitality, construction and retail were specifically mentioned in the submission, which are areas where traditionally there is much precarious work and low pay. They are not famous for being high-paying industries. Are the witnesses seeing a link between the Government policy interventions and companies entering the SCARP process? What is their impression of it? I understand this is not recorded in fine detail. I would welcome hearing the witnesses’ impression of what happening there.