Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I propose to take Questions Nos. 7 to 10, inclusive, together.

I addressed the biennial conference of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions on Monday, 4 July in Killarney. In my speech to delegates I outlined the economic challenges facing our country and reiterated the Government's determination to tackle our difficulties head on. I stressed the importance of building confidence in our country to enable us to re-enter the financial markets, which means making the necessary adjustments to bring our spending and revenue onto a sustainable path. I emphasised the necessity of implementing structural changes to restore competitiveness and make Ireland an even more successful location for investment, enterprise and jobs.

I made it clear that the decisions we will have to take will be neither easy nor popular. However, I reassured those present that they will be fair and balanced and will support our strategy of getting the country back to work. I commended the public service unions and their members on the scale of the adjustments which have already taken place under the Croke Park agreement, while also seeking an acceleration of the process with the co-operation and good will of the trade unions concerned.

I also referred in my speech to the ongoing discussion about the regulation of pay and conditions in certain sectors. The Government is committed to the protection of vulnerable workers and the reversal of the cut in the national minimum wage is a clear demonstration of that commitment.

When it comes to the wage setting machinery of joint labour committees, employment regulation orders and registered employment agreements, the fact is that everyone has long accepted the need for change. This has been the common view of employers and congress for some time. The High Court judgement delivered on 7 July underlines the need to press ahead with a balanced legislative reform agenda in this area.

I confirmed my intention to follow up my recent meeting with ICTU with further meetings to review the broad areas of mutual interest and concern as part of a wider process of ongoing social dialogue. I propose to engage with the other social partners in a similar spirit.

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