Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)

I tabled a question on the social dialogue over the Croke Park agreement, which for some reason was transferred to the Minister with responsibility for the public sector, such is the restrictive nature of trying to get questions answered by the Taoiseach during Taoiseach's questions. Would the Taoiseach agree it is arguable that if we had a more proactive social dialogue and social framework, the issues around Vita Cortex, Lagan Brick and other companies could have been dealt with much earlier? The Labour Relations Commission came too late to the Vita Cortex dispute. Ministers were standing back from it up to Christmas. We ended up ringing Ministers about it on 23 December. In addition, the matter was raised in the Dáil on a number of occasions prior to the Christmas recess, but no formal intervention came before January. If a more proactive social dialogue was going on, a framework would exist to deal with these issues much earlier. Closer linkages are required between employers, trade unions and State agencies in this regard. It would also allow for more inter-ministerial dialogue. Three Ministers are involved with different dimensions: Finance, Social Protection, and Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation. The resolution of this dispute could involve all three, as well as the owner who has the fundamental obligation and responsibility.

I hear what the Taoiseach is saying about not wanting to go back, but there is an argument for a more proactive social dialogue. The Agency Workers Bill was poorly worked out because of the absence of a proactive social dialogue between the partners. We did not get the optimal outcome on that prior to Christmas as regards jobs in the economy. It has passed most people by in terms of awareness and profile, but it could have implications for jobs if there was a more proactive engagement.

It has been widely reported that the Taoiseach's backbenchers have been beating down his door about the Croke Park agreement, and that they and some Ministers have been talking tough about tearing up that agreement. Is the Taoiseach holding any such discussions with backbenchers or are these stories just part of some misleading spin being placed in the media? I would like the Taoiseach to confirm the Government's position on the Croke Park agreement because many Deputies in his own party and some in the Labour Party have questioned it; they have suggested that it be torn up. I would argue that we do need a more proactive social dialogue framework to deal with many such issues that are arising.

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