Billy Kelleher (Cork North Central, Fianna Fail)

Everybody accepts there is a huge challenge and the hotel industry is under pressure because of international problems, including a weak sterling and weak dollar, as well as our own internal difficulties. They are currently discussing the matter and I am hopeful they will come to an agreement quickly to reflect the new realities. I urge all sides to accept that.

In the context of catering, that particular issue has been addressed and is going through the process of being lodged with the Labour Court and then becoming the law of the land.

On the broader issue, we have choices in this House. We could tear up the current arrangements, but I do not believe we should. They can work if they are more responsive in difficult times. I am quite sure that people can come together from both sides — industry and employees — and, more importantly, the chair is independent. That issue is also being looked at in the context of the review of JLCs and the amalgamation of same as a commitment in Towards 2016.

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