Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I also welcome the opportunity to speak on this Bill. I thank Deputy Cullinane for introducing it, and other Deputies for their valuable contributions. Ireland has one of the highest levels of low-paid workers in the EU, as well as having the second highest level of wage inequality after Portugal. Those are frightening statistics. As a long-standing employer myself for over 30 years, there are huge differences and gaps here. While I agree with most parts of the legislation, I am concerned about SMEs with up to ten employees, as well as the self-employed. Rural industries, including agriculture, are affected also so it is important for them to be protected. It is difficult to strike a balance between both.

We must condemn out of hand the treatment by many multinationals - and many of our own so-called flagship industries also, including the food industry and elsewhere - where one must manage a job or lose it. I say that from experience whereby people are literally expected to work enormous hours. They must also put up with all kinds of requests at awkward times. We have heard various stories from Deputy Clare Daly but that kind of abuse of people with six-hour contracts working over 40 hours is totally unfair.

We must never have a situation where an employee has a fear of health and safety or a bullying issue are afraid to report it to a line manager for fear of losing hours or other recriminations. That is very wrong and unfair. It is not a healthy relationship either for an employee or an employer. I can say that from my own experience as an employer with employees. It is vital to have a happy and satisfied employee. The situation may not always be placid and straightforward because there will always be ups and downs, but one must have respect for workers.

More and more people are being pushed onto these short-term contracts by big business. Names have been mentioned here tonight, so I do not have to name them again. Many of them do not even bank their money in this country. We have to examine that and ensure that the situation is rectified. Small businesses work very hard and normally they have a good relationship with their employees. One does not see placards, strikes or bullying behind the scenes there.

I would be worried for part-timers involved in rural sectors, including agriculture, as well as tourism and other seasonal work.

I welcome it in general, in particular, for seasonal workers in tourism and associated industries in which full-time work is not available. It is important that there be flexibility. It is also welcome and important that employees will have the right of appeal to the Workplace Relations Commission and that such appeals will be heard without fear or favour.

There are good aspects to the Bill, although some amendments will be required. The legislation is timely and I hope it will receive a fair hearing and be allowed to progress to Committee Stage.

See this speech in context