Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

I certainly will not defend the position. The consultation process is clear. When companies are making strategic decisions — neither I nor Deputy Rabbitte is questioning their decisions, which they have right to make — they should follow the directive and normal good industrial relations practice. In fairness to the trade union movement in this country, it is not unreasonable in that it understands companies must make strategic decisions but they should consult it. The Minister informed me that the company did not raise the issue earlier in the autumn when dealing with the sugar quota issue. State companies, former State companies and other companies should enter into these discussions as early as possible because if that is not done, it leads to industrial relations difficulties. We should always try to follow best practice. I am sure I will find an appropriate time to say that directly to the company.

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