Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

It is important to remember that the increased fine would be imposed in the case of a collective redundancy where the dismissals occur before the expiry of the 30-day period. That may not be the most important issue. There are very good reasons, separate from the fine, that an employer should go beyond that period in any event. The increase in the fine is substantial. Even in cases such as those referred to by Deputy Morgan an employer would take some notice of the fact that he would be liable for such a fine and all the other attendant costs. The purpose of the legislation is to address the rights of employees and to give employees the best provision in these circumstances. That purpose is reasonably achieved within the provisions of the Bill.

See this speech in context