James Reilly (Dublin North, Fine Gael)

An bhfuil sé as Béarla nó Gaeilge? On Friday, 600 people will be let go; which 600 is not known. One hour ago, I was told via telephone that the SR Technics Group has refused to abide by the Labour Court recommendation and that the workers are meeting among Dublin Airport's hangars to discuss their future as we sit in the Chamber. In this light, what assistance can the Government provide them? Without breaching EU law, will it undertake to make funds available to IDA Ireland in order that it can sustain a takeover of the company and retain the jobs?

On Friday, 600 people will lose their jobs. If they are dispersed, knowledge and expertise will be lost to us forever, which we cannot afford. Recently, the Government's thrust has been in respect of creating and retaining jobs. This situation is an acid test and one I hope the Government will pass, given how much hangs on it.

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