Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

There is an immediate emerging threat to the pay and conditions of more than 200,000 people. Whether there will be reform is not at issue, as every group, including trade unions, supports the need for a reformed system. What is at issue is why the Government is refusing to offer any protection or take any steps to guard the rights of workers in the coming months.

The relevant committee of the House has no other legislation to deal with now and could easily take up the Bill. The Government could amend our Bill if it did not agree with the entirety of our approach. This could be done quickly, allowing a definite date in September when employment protection orders could be introduced.

The Taoiseach said he would not oppose this Bill but what does that mean? Does it mean he will accept the Bill into a committee of this House for deliberation? If the Taoiseach is comfortable talking the talk about restoring this protection, why will he not walk the walk and agree to support the legislation which will achieve that aim? Will he clarify what he means when he states he will not "oppose" the measure and does this mean the Bill will go through the House and be enacted? Will it go to the committee? What is the status of the Government's response to this party's legislation?

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