Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I met union representatives of the call centre workers when I was in Killarney yesterday to address the Irish Congress of Trade Unions. I was informed of Vodafone's decision to move these jobs to India and Egypt. I regret that they will be lost to this country. This is not a new phenomenon. When I was Minister for Tourism and Trade, a number of international airlines and other companies with trade elements here set up call centres here. The centres lasted a number of years until companies found they could provide the same service in other locations at a cheaper cost. There was then a move to a higher level of expertise and experience. I regret the decision made by Vodafone. The requirement and the challenge for the Government is to continue to create jobs in Ireland. As a start, the jobs initiative, which was drawn up within the conditions of the IMF-EU bailout deal, provides an incentive to stimulate the indigenous economy here. As the Deputy pointed out, the Government's programme does not involve taxing employment or work. When I met the union representatives yesterday, they clearly explained their concerns in this regard. Obviously, I was aware that the matter might be raised during Question Time here.

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