Gerald Nash (Louth, Labour) | Oireachtas source

We are conscious of the role seasonal workers play in the economy, and we are also conscious of the opportunities required to be given to seasonal workers for work during periods of the year. I am sure the Deputy has had an opportunity to look at the report at some level over the past 24 hours. It is balanced and the UL's recommendations are independently provided and will be considered by the Government. The UL was conscious of taking a balanced approach to its findings and recommendations, to ensure those working non-guaranteed hours and those doing seasonal work are protected and receive the full panoply of employment protections and also ensure a degree of flexibility in the labour market so enterprises can be run efficiently and effectively. The study is also conscious of the very clear view that no interventions should be made in a legislative or regulatory fashion which would very rigidly prevent people from taking up seasonal work.

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