Séamus Brennan (Dublin South, Fianna Fail)

Many studies and reports about matters like the development of the welfare state and the creation of a more inclusive labour market have been produced over many years. This concept was not dreamt up over the last couple of weeks. It is obvious that everybody is flexing their muscles as the general election approaches. Talks and industrial relations procedures are ongoing. I assure community welfare officers that they have nothing to fear from the Department of Social and Family Affairs, which is where their professional salaries and their clients come from. I do not understand why they might want to work for anybody else. I will use this legislation to ensure the flexibility and independence of these professional people, who provide a fantastic service, are assured.

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