Mr. Joe O'Connor:

It is clear how that has been calculated. It has been calculated on the basis of an estimate that if one reduces time by 20%, one reduces productivity by 20% and increases employment costs by 20%. It is clear from our discussion today and from the research and evidence that has been put forward that while there certainly are discussions that need to be had regarding how this could be implemented in certain sectors, it is a falsehood to say that reducing time automatically leads to a reduction in productivity and, therefore, an increase in employment costs. In fairness, that figure was provided in response to a parliamentary question. It is very similar to a response to a parliamentary question on this issue back in 2017. As members are probably aware, parliamentary questions are often answered on the basis of the most recent information to hand.

We look forward to engaging with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform on this. We have had positive interactions with the Ministers, Deputies Varadkar and Darragh O'Brien, on this issue and we have had a great deal of interest from all three Government parties and the other parties across the political system. We are keen to engage on the basis we believe this can be trialled in aspects of the public service and the Civil Service in a way that will not impact on productivity and, therefore, will not impact on employment costs. We think it is important for this to be a feature of the trial because much of the research suggests the public sector can play a pioneering role in introducing this. There is significant private sector interest. Even since I joined the committee meeting earlier, I have received four emails from companies in Ireland that are interested in being part of the programme next year. We are keen for the pilot to be as broad as possible.