Mick Barry (Cork North Central, Anti-Austerity Alliance) | Oireachtas source

What could one do with €2.9 million? One would be able to end the two-tier pay system for young workers in the public sector and restore all the wages and benefits taken from public sector workers in the course of the austerity crisis years.

There is a clear alternative if it is prepared to tax the rich. Of course, the Fine Gael Party is a party of the rich and will not entertain the idea of taxing them, as shown by the nudges, winks, nods, grins and laughter between the Minister, Deputy Simon Coveney, and the Taoiseach in the course of my contribution. They believe my suggestion is amusing, but many people will say it is basic common sense, would be good for ordinary people and should be done. Obviously, vested interests are impacting on Fine Gael's party policy.

What now for the trade union movement, including the ICTU, in addressing this issue? The movement should, first and foremost, base itself on a simple policy, that being, pursuing what is necessary for its members, those whom it represents. Two things are necessary, the first being full restoration of all of the money taken from the back pockets of public sector workers during the austerity crisis years. This should not be done in 2018, 2019 or 2020; effectively, it should be done now. Second, the cost of living has increased for these workers in recent years. I could point to motor insurance premiums and many other factors, but what about mortgage and rent payments, the second of which affects young public servants, in particular? Not only should there be full pay restoration, but claims should be submitted to address cost of living increases. If they can be negotiated with the Government, grand, but the Taoiseach, the Minister and those on the Government benches are taking a hard line in considering this type of idea. If these issues cannot be negotiated, claims should be submitted. If strikes and battles are necessary to win the justified increases, it is right to do so and we will be prepared to stand alongside public servants every inch of the way as they battle for pay justice.

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