John Perry (Sligo-North Leitrim, Fine Gael)

I accept that this figure is still high and we are working to reduce it. A new computerised system has been introduced and this is allowing for the speedier processing of claims. A number of Deputies referred to the issue of ex gratia payments made in redundancy situations. The purpose of the redundancy payments scheme is to compensate workers for the loss of their jobs by reason of redundancy. It is the responsibility of employers to pay statutory redundancy to all eligible employees. An employer who pays statutory redundancy payments to his or her employees is entitled to a rebate from the State of a percentage of the relevant amount. While an employer is, of course, free to make payments to employees in excess of the statutory entitlement, the Department's role relates exclusively to the payment of the statutory entitlement.

The workplace relations reform project is a tangible example of the Government's commitment not just to the legislative scope employment rights but, just as importantly, to the means through which these rights can be upheld and vindicated. Sinn Féin's Bill proposes amendments which, as well as representing an additional burden, offer no real improvements for employees relative to the existing suite of employment law protections. Legislative provisions are only as good as the capacity that exists to enforce them. As recent experience has shown, 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.

I am of the view that the current legislative measures which the Bill proposes to change provide an adequate level of support for employees who find themselves in a situation where their employers have become insolvent. As a result, I cannot support the Bill.

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