Enda Kenny (Mayo, Fine Gael)

In respect of the statutory redundancy payments, the Department of Social Protection and the Minister moved because of the claim that the employer was not able to pay. Obviously, where an employer has funds available, he or she is duty bound to meet employees' statutory entitlements. There is no question of the State making them and the employer coming back to make a top-up payment. For the information of the House, the dispute relates to the non-payment of 0.9% of a week's pay per year of service. As the Deputy pointed out, the total sum involved amounts to €372,000. Where workers have supplied bank account details, the money will be lodged to their account in the week commencing 13 February, having been processed by the Department of Social Protection. Where bank account details have not been provided, payment will be made by cheque. Cheque payments should also issue during the week commencing 13 February.

I understand from the Labour Relations Commission that the solicitors acting on behalf of Vita Cortex have in recent days written to SIPTU indicating they may look at the question of taking out an injunction against the workers who continue to occupy the factory. As I stated, I would like to see this matter being brought to a successful conclusion. Reputation is very important to everybody. Of all the workers I have met during the years I have found the workers involved in this instance to be very understanding; they realise they are in a difficult position, but they have a very deep feeling that they deserve respect from their employer. In some cases they have given up to 47 years loyal, dedicated and committed service to the business. I have informed the Labour Relations Commission about my meeting with the workers and their trade union representatives and its outcome and asked it to become involved again. I have taken note of what the Deputy said.

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