Willie O'Dea (Limerick City, Fianna Fail)

I congratulate Deputy Bruton on his appointment, and his sidekick Deputy John Perry. Their appointments are well deserved and I did not have the opportunity before now to congratulate them. A number of questions arise from the Minister's reply. When will the changes the Government decides to make be in place? There was a great deal of urgency expressed by both Government parties in the lead-up to the election. This was seen as central to improving competitiveness. It is unfair that 250,000 people have the sword of Damocles hanging over their heads for an indefinite period. I would like to have a timescale on this.

The programme for Government states that the examination of these agreements will include the rate of pay for atypical hours. That can only mean one of two things, that the Government will abolish special arrangements for those with atypical hours or that it will reduce the rate of pay for those with atypical hours. People in this category are, by and large, poorly paid, including those in the hospitality and tourism industry. Will changes proposed by the Government cover existing employees or will it be confined, as it should be, to new entrants?

High Court proceedings, on which a judgment is imminent, are challenging the JLCs. Does the Minister have a contingency plan in the event of the challenge succeeding?

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