Danny Healy-Rae (Kerry, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I am glad of the opportunity to speak and thank the Independent Group for organising this motion relating to Debenhams workers. As has been pointed out, Debenhams has assets in other places and it was supported very well in Tralee by the people who used to buy its wares. The people of Tralee did not let the Debenhams workers down.

Likewise, the people in Dublin did not let Debenhams down. They are, however, being let down by this very wealthy company. Seeing as the company is not for caving in, the Government should take some action to ensure the workers will get fair compensation. What has been offered is only paltry and it is not acceptable or fair. Having seen the workers out on the picket line day after day, we know the horrible way in which they have been treated.

I thank the Independent Group for bringing forward this very important motion and giving us in Dáil Éireann the opportunity to support the Debenhams workers, which I and the rest of our group will gladly do.

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