Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

The Deputy's assessment is fair. We would have preferred a further opportunity to explore avenues to resolve the issues prior to the company going into liquidation. However, now is not the time to be judgmental. We must try to move forward and create a new atmosphere.

In regard to companies in the manufacturing sector, I have come across a number of cases during the past few years wherein the overall industrial relations background — this reflects the position on both sides — was difficult in terms of communication and understanding. This type of situation allows problems to build up to an extent wherein an eleventh hour scenario is reached, trust breaks down and the situation becomes adversarial. We intervened in a number of cases because we received prior notice of the situation. Senior trade union officials often seek to resolve issues with management and owners of companies.

I have asked the manufacturing forum to consider such issues. We face enough global challenges without shooting ourselves in the foot. I hope we can move forward in terms of assisting and supporting the ongoing development of the company concerned. The company is in a competitive space globally and has a bright future which we are anxious to support.

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