Bríd Smith (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance) | Oireachtas source

The Debenhams workers have shown incredible determination and courage. Their patience with what has happened to them is astounding. I also think they have shown leadership in trying to push this House to legislate as it should have done many years ago. It is time that the Tánaiste and the Taoiseach stepped up to the plate and showed leadership. This issue has been raised 17 times in the last week in the House - this is the 18th time - by many Deputies across all parties, even on the Government benches. It is time to answer the question. The Taoiseach gave a commitment in the recent past to Deputies Gino Kenny, Barry and Boyd Barrett that the Cabinet would discuss this issue. Has it discussed it this week and, if not, when will it discuss it? We are hurtling towards Christmas. Next Tuesday, the workers will be 222 days on strike and they will be outside the gates of Leinster House to plead with the leadership of this country to show equal leadership to what they have shown.

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