Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I take it from the Taoiseach's reply that every effort will be made to fast-track payments to the workers affected and, in particular, their welfare entitlements. In addition, the Taoiseach might comment on the needs of suppliers. Their position is in considerable jeopardy as a result of what happened and the manner in which it happened. We would be willing to co-operate with the Government on this issue in terms of any legislative interventions that would be necessary to prevent a recurrence of this situation. That refers not just to industrial relations legislation but also company law and the manner in which the financial world can create various vehicles and scenarios effectively to absolve companies of fulfilling their moral obligations, as well as their legal obligations, to workers, suppliers and others in situations such as this. This is happening too frequently. There is a growing trend in certain sectors, particularly the retail sector, whereby workers are being consistently undermined in respect of their terms, conditions and pay.

The Oireachtas cannot stand by and facilitate the continuation of this. It needs to send a very strong message. I understand the Minister of State, Deputy Gerald Nash, said he was contemplating a change in legislation. Perhaps the Taoiseach might indicate whether the Government is preparing to examine legislation in this area.

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