Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would have to see the circumstances of any individual case. I cannot judge this matter without seeing them. This has not been brought to the attention of any labour relations bodies, such as the National Employment Rights Authority. I have not got a briefing on this. If there is a deficiency in our employment or company law exposed by this case, I will certainly examine it.

Under general law, a company can close, for whatever reason, such as adverse trading conditions, and its owner can start a new business. There is no blanket ban on people involved in a company starting another business on its closure. It is quite right that there should be no such ban. Without seeing a case and determining whether there are weaknesses in legislation, it is very hard to judge.

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