Charlie O'Connor (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

I look forward to all the contributions on this motion, particularly that of my colleague, Deputy Tony Dempsey, who represents the Wexford constituency. He will particularly emphasise the support which many of us wish to express. It is important to acknowledge that the opportunity to discuss this important issue arises from the initiative of the Independent Deputies who have placed this motion on the agenda. I compliment them in this regard.

As in my political work in general, I bring my own experiences to this debate. I am aware of what is sometimes said about Fianna Fáil Deputies in the context of such debates, but I remind Members that I have a trade union background. I have never worked at sea but my paternal grandfather died working on the sea. For this reason, I have always had a particular interest in issues relating to the rights of seafaring workers. My grandfather was at sea at a time when workers were not as well looked after and that cost him his life. I have a great deal of sympathy in regard to the matter under discussion.

It is important that we should express solidarity with the Irish Ferries workers. There has been much political debate on this issue and some Opposition Members have made colourful contributions. That is fair enough in the rough and tumble of politics. I listened carefully to last night's debate, particularly the contributions of the Ministers of State, Deputies Killeen and Gallagher. I compliment both in expressing the general view of Fianna Fáil Members that we are strongly in favour of supporting the Irish Ferries workers. There has been much talk, both inside and outside the House, in the last number of days on the question of social partnership. This issue was discussed at a Community Platform meeting I attended today in the National Library.

I appreciate that colleagues have different views on the partnership process. I have been a strong supporter of it throughout my community life and am proud of what the Government has achieved in this regard. During leaders' questions on 28 September, I was pleased to hear the Taoiseach's forthright comments which were strongly supportive of the Irish Ferries workers and critical of the company. Despite what might be said in the cut and thrust of political debate, the Taoiseach did not spare Irish Ferries and it is time for other organisations and individuals to provide some answers. There has been some criticism of how IBEC has responded to this issue, for example, but I do not propose to speak on behalf of that body.

I ask that Members behave responsibly during this debate. I had hoped to be in Lansdowne Road tonight or to at least watch the performance of the Tallaght players Robbie Keane and Richard Dunne on television. Instead, I will listen to this important debate. The Government understands the sensitivities of the situation and is supportive of the workers. I look forward to the contribution of the Minister of State, Deputy Gallagher, in this regard.

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