Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I was disturbed by and disappointed to read the decision of the Workplace Relations Commission. I read it again this morning. It is absolutely clear that the Minister of State's questions during the interview were discriminatory and unacceptable.

The Minister of State, Deputy Halligan, has expressed regret for what happened. The incident should never have happened and he has accepted that. Deputies will be aware of the importance I place on gender equality. Many of us in this House, including Deputy Howlin, worked for a long time to make sure that having a family should never be interfered with, whether one was promoted or got a job. We worked hard to ensure there would be strong anti-discrimination and equality legislation in place. Indeed, Ireland's body of employment law protects all persons employed in Ireland. Clearly, we never want to see sexual orientation, religious belief, age, disability, race or membership of the Traveller community placing a barrier when one is looking for a job. That is the first point, on which I think we are all extremely clear.

The Minister of State, Deputy Halligan, has issued a statement and has expressed regret. In regard to the Deputy's point about an apology, of course, the person is owed an apology and I would unequivocally give that on behalf of the Department. We certainly regret what happened and accept the decision of the Workplace Relations Commission which was issued yesterday. In regard to the fine, the obligation falls on the Department to pay that fine, and that is the situation, whatever approach the Minister of State, Deputy Halligan, takes. I am sure, no doubt, that when he returns on Sunday - he is abroad at present - he will give a more detailed statement-----

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