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

In the context of the programme for Government and in various discussions prior to the formation of the Government, there was considerable discussion on the issue of the casualisation of the workforce and the downward momentum in pay levels generally, particularly in the private sector and some elements of the public sector for new entrants. The circumstances of Tesco workers are particularly worrying. Tesco is endeavouring to change, and is in the process of, changing contracts for employees who have been working with it for more than 20 years. It is symptomatic of what is happening in many enterprises. There is a dumbing down, in many respects, of the quality of employment and terms and conditions for people who have given loyal and committed service. It is very unfair on the workers concerned. At various times, various trade unions will endeavour to enter into negotiations to obtain lump sums, for example, but essentially the jobs themselves and their status are essentially being undermined. It is a worry in terms of the growing gulf in income levels in society. Will the Tánaiste indicate whether the Workplace Relations Commission is considering intervening in that dispute? More widely in terms of the programme for Government, when can we expect some concrete measures to deal with this issue and issues like it?

Second, with regard to the public sector pay commission, which is committed to in the programme for Government, will the Tánaiste indicate to the House when it will be established? Will there be consultation with the Dáil prior to its establishment? Will debate be facilitated with the relevant committee and with the House itself during plenary session? Will the membership of the commission be the subject of consultation and engagement?

Third, there is a commitment in the programme for Government to the development of a second cath laboratory in Waterford University Hospital subject to a favourable recommendation from an independent clinical review of the needs of the region to be carried out within six weeks. Will the Tánaiste confirm when this review is due to commence and who the members of the review team will be?

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