Bertie Ahern (Dublin Central, Fianna Fail)

The Lisbon strategy has worked extremely well in many areas. It was about education, tackling disadvantage, putting more money into research, trying to generate sustainable employment and competitiveness across Europe. Domestically, we have far surpassed anything in Europe in this regard and are at the top of the European table in most, though not all, areas. There will be challenges for the future at Europe and domestic level. We have seen the implementation of the national poverty strategy, tens of thousands of young people taken out of poverty and huge improvements in welfare to tackle inequalities. It never stops. We will always continue to put money into communities at risk, such as the Traveller community or communities with drug-related problems. Our domestic figures compared to our European partners are excellent. Our figures in respect of generating employment are second to none.

The Deputy is aware that a range of legislation exists to deal with migrant workers in the economy. The legislation before the House will strengthen some of the procedures and stop individuals who are trying to abuse employment laws and to cut labour rates. We have the highest minimum wage and laws and procedures that we must enforce. We have a range of measures to protect migrant workers.

Abuses are not wide-ranging. I spoke recently with trade unions about complaints. A substantial number of complaints, some of which are serious, have been made, but, in fairness, there is not an enormous number of rogue employers or self-employed people involved in this. These abuses can be rooted out, but this will require some tough action. We have the highest minimum wage, which is untaxed, and a good return. We have opened up to other EU countries, with the exception of Bulgaria and Romania. We must ensure that people of other nationalities do not commit abuses and are not abused by employers. Obviously, in the future, we must keep a keen eye on this through the enforcement of new legislation. It is a new problem for us. A large number of inspectors are being recruited to undertake this task.

See this speech in context