Denis Naughten (Roscommon-South Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his reply. My difficulty is that arrears have been paid in sections 38 and 39 organisations in Dublin, namely, Home Again Traveller, Families Care and Cottage Home for Little Children. Why are we treating staff in Galway and Roscommon differently than staff in Dublin where the same liability applies and the latter had not traditionally been receiving the twilight premium? Where arrears have accrued, payment is being made to staff in Dublin but not to staff in Galway and Roscommon.

Will the Minister examine this situation? In fairness to the staff involved, they do outstanding work in sometimes difficult circumstances, particularly in recent years due to changes in work practices and resources. There has been a major shift in how they operate their services. We should try to meet this liability, given the fact that it is being paid in one part of the country. I urge the Minister to examine this issue and try to facilitate a resolution. By 17 April, there could be a clear programme to resolve the issue once and for all.

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