Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputy. As I pointed out, I do not have the details here that the HSA would have because the authority comes under another Department's remit. I outlined the assessments and the checks that my Department has carried out on the authority's behalf to supplement that work. At all times we have been clear about the absolute importance of safety across all working environments, particularly those in the meat industry. Activity in this industry was designated as essential during Covid. It has continued throughout the period and the risk has been more significant as a result. We have always highlighted the absolute importance of ensuring that possible precaution is taken and that this is done consistently. Certainly, I have ensured, as have other Government colleagues, that this message has been put out there consistently. In terms of the sector, those involved are very much aware of that too because, ultimately, the health and welfare of employees is more important to them than it is to anyone else. It is essential that that is at the centre of everything we do.

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