Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

I agree with the Deputy that we need strong deterrents but the fundamental issue concerns the ability to pay and the need to ensure that those who do not receive full payment will be compensated immediately. If one were to seize the assets of a company expressing an inability to pay, it would make matters very difficult. The priority is to ensure that those who do not receive fair pay or holidays are compensated immediately. The labour inspectors are ensuring that arrears are paid. By and large, the major concern of the worker is that he or she would be reimbursed and receive his or her full entitlements. This in itself obviously serves as a deterrent to the employer.

Over the coming years and on foot of the strong compliance legislation, which will be published shortly, employers will be very well aware of their rights and their obligation to ensure all workers are paid.

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