Marian Harkin (Sligo-Leitrim, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I wish to comment briefly on the issue of those returning from maternity leave and their exclusion from the temporary wage subsidy scheme. The Minister has said he will try to find a solution and I welcome that. I have just two comments to make. First, this needs to be done very quickly as many women find themselves in that position right now. Second, the Minister indicated that he might not be in favour of extending maternity leave.

I know it is a complicated issue but will he, in conjunction with his relevant ministerial colleague and employers, look to show some flexibility? Many issues make it difficult, none more so than that relating to childcare. I would appreciate that.

I have two questions. I will give the Minister the first one briefly. I have been contacted by several people who, unfortunately, have had to close their businesses. Given the requirements of social distancing, etc., they know that because their premises are so small, they cannot continue in business and are winding down. Yet, energy and telephone companies want to charge them extortionate rates to cancel their Internet and telephone contracts early. I know of two small business owners of whom over €400 is being asked by an Internet provider simply to cancel contracts early, as well as a charge of €99 per telephone. Are there any protections to stop such extortionate penalty clauses from being imposed on people who have to close their businesses? They were told to do so in the first instance and now they know they cannot reopen.

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