Ruairi Quinn (Dublin South East, Labour)

I find the Minister's response utterly irresponsible considering that the new leader-designate of Fianna Fáil, Deputy Brian Cowen, announced earlier at a press conference that Fianna Fáil would respect social partnership and an inclusive approach to society. In effect the Minister is presiding over a yellow pack form of employment. The Minister has not answered the question properly. She has not recognised the difficulties presented on 11 March to her officials and her interpretation of ongoing discussions is utterly at variance with the other impression, which was to the effect that negotiations had all but broken down. Deputy Brian Hayes might confirm it but that was the interpretation I took from the deputation which took part in the meeting.

Is the Minister indicating that ongoing discussions will continue with IMPACT and officials have been empowered to engage in constructive and positive negotiations with a view to addressing the illegal labour law anomalies in effect under the Minister's watch in schools in the Republic of Ireland? Will the Minister indicate if she proposes to increase the overall capitation grant for schools so they are not forced into yellow pack conditions of employment, which are an absolute outrage in a country that claims to have the second highest standard of living and per capita income in the European Union?

See this speech in context