Áine Collins (Cork North West, Fine Gael)

The issue of redundancy is, by its nature, very sensitive as an individual is losing his or her job. When redundancies are announced, its effects on the individual are life changing. This can result in many knock-on effects such as inability to pay a mortgage, insufficient funds for educating children and a total change in lifestyle, not to mention the psychological effects. Redundancies can be particularly painful when they occur in the midst of a recession, where unemployment figures make it difficult for a person to get alternative work.

For these reasons it is very important that we look very carefully at any suggestions that might improve the lot of workers who are being made redundant. Indeed that is why there is already a raft of legislation which has evolved over the years to protect the rights of workers. Unions, governments and employment organisations are constantly reviewing the regulations that govern redundancy to try to ensure the best possible outcome for those unfortunate enough to be placed in that position.

Extending the notice period in cases where redundancies have to be made could have a negative impact on a business which is trying its best to survive and recover. The impact would be felt by both the employees who are made redundant as well as those staying on. It creates underlying negative moral issues in the workplace and this can have a long-lasting effect on the business. There is also extensive European legislation which offers a further layer of protection to redundant workers. Having acknowledged the importance of the objective of protecting redundant workers, it is important that this is achieved in a balanced way. Looking at one of the original EU directives in 1998, the Commission notes the need for balanced economic and social development

Sinn Féin's rhetoric in every big issue of the day seems to be designed to promote Sinn Féin as a party rather than promote what is good for Ireland or its citizens. This is true of its stance on the upcoming treaty, where its leaders are asking people to vote "No" on emotional issues without providing any solution as to how we fund the State after 2014 in the event of such a vote. With this Bill, Sinn Féin is promoting soundbites which are not practical and which cannot be implemented in a balanced way. As Minister of State, Deputy Sherlock, stated: "Ultimately it could serve only to expose the taxpayer and employees to an additional burden, while also ironically acting as a chill factor to the creation of vitally necessary new employment in the State."

The Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation is committed to introducing legislation and structures that will not only help to resolve difficulties being experienced by employees, but will also benefit the overall relationship between unions, employers, and government, with more structured and effective ways of resolving issues that arise. The Minister last month announced the detail of his plans to establish a two tier employment rights and industrial relations structure. Work has begun on drafting of the workplace relations Bill, which will be enacted in the third quarter of this year. This will include measures to promote compliance and deter employers from risking non-compliance. As well as providing improved services, these reforms will bring about significant savings for the Exchequer.

I agree with the Minister of State, Deputy Sherlock, that the focus should be on providing improved mechanisms through which vindication of existing rights can be facilitated. The Minister, Deputy Bruton, has already shown his clear commitment to this objective. For these reasons I will be voting against this Bill.

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