Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I expect the authority to be fully staffed by the end of 2007 and there is an ambitious business plan in place for 2008 focusing on the promotion and enforcement of employment rights.

The Labour Court, the Labour Relations Commission and the Employment Appeals Tribunal, which are all funded through my Department's Estimate, provide further supports where necessary to workers — and indeed to employers — as part of the employment rights and industrial relations mechanisms under my Department's remit. These areas have had their allocations increased in the pre-budget Estimates in line with standard inflationary increases to allow them to maintain their high level of services. Funding to the Health and Safety Authority has also been increased in line with standard inflators to ensure occupational health and safety continues to receive attention.

I draw the attention of Deputies to an increase provided in my Department's pre-budget Estimate for the workplace innovation fund, with the allocation amounting to €2.75 million. This represents an increase of €1.8 million on 2007, in line with previously stated partnership commitments. This has been a significant contributor to social partnership in the Irish economy.

We are determined to provide value for money and concentrate on outcomes in key strategic areas which will ensure the continuation of Ireland's competitiveness. The key areas of skills, research and development, consumer awareness and advocacy, as well as a commitment to fair practice and the proper application of labour law, will be key elements of this year's pre-budget Estimates for my Department.

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