James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I am glad to hear that.

The protection of whistleblowers is central to the struggle against corruption and is important in prompting higher standards. The Bill strikes a fair balance between the interest of the whistleblower who discloses wrongdoing and the employer who could be damaged by unfounded allegations. It is important that the legislation sends positive signals to international observers who are concerned about past standards of governance in this country. In future, no workplace will be above accountability and scrutiny. This Bill reinforces the demand for transparency and accountability as set out in Article 28 of the Constitution, which states that the Government shall be responsible to the Dáil and to the people of Ireland. That is something the previous Government appeared to ignore. I welcome the fact that the Bill will amend the Unfair Dismissals Acts to cover those who make protected disclosures. I commend the Minister and his officials on their introduction of the legislation.

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