Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

Deputy Coonan is correct in saying that previous Ministers have grappled unsuccessfully with this matter. I am not familiar with whatever undertakings he is referring to prior to the election, but I am sure he will make that information available to me at some stage. The fundamental difference between the situation in this country and in the United Kingdom is that the British mining industry was nationalised. Clearly, in that instance, the government was de facto the miners' employer and ultimately responsible for whatever occupational ill health, including respiratory difficulties, they suffered from. If we want to progress this issue seriously I am more than happy to meet the people involved. It will be necessary, however, in conjunction with the Department of Social and Family Affairs to come up with an innovative scheme that will successfully ring-fence these people and distinguish them from others. The Leas-Cheann Comhairle will know, more than most, that quite a number of others suffer from workplace-related illnesses or disabilities. Ultimately, if there is to be success in this area, such an innovative approach will be required. I am more than happy to meet those involved and to discuss the matter with the Minister for Social and Family Affairs.

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