Finian McGrath (Dublin North Central, Independent)

I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to the debate on the new national wage agreement, the ten-year framework social partnership agreement 2006-15. I pay tribute to workers, members of the trade union movement and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions. I thank and commend all workers for their contribution to the development of the economy. When I hear people going on about the Celtic tiger, it gets up my nose when many of them forget to mention the magnificent, hard and dedicated work of Irish and foreign workers in this State. They have made a great economic and social contribution to the development of the economy. Their sweat, money and taxes have built the country. I thank and commend our workers as well as our foreign nationals for their great contribution to the country.

As regards the broader issues in this debate, it is essential that our workers are well paid for their labours. I challenge the employers on this matter and demand justice and fair play for all workers. Exploitation and low pay should never be tolerated. Anyone who exploits their staff should be strongly challenged.

I welcome the sections in page 5 of the agreement dealing with integrating an island of Ireland economy, as well as reinventing and repositioning Ireland's social policies. I strongly support the ICTU and I urge the Government and employers to listen seriously to its constructive views. The ICTU's solutions are sensible options to resolving many conflicts on this island. Congress is and should always be a major player. I commend again Irish workers for their magnificent contribution to the broader economy.

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