Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Deputies for their questions. The health, welfare and safety of workers must be absolutely central to everything we do, particularly in environments where essential work is continuing. That is the clear message we are putting out to all sectors, particularly the meat processing sector. My Department has worked to assist the HSA in this regard, including in the carrying out of more than 500 inspections, alongside the ongoing work we do in this area.

On Deputy Carthy's point regarding turkey farm operations, my Department has an engagement in terms of veterinary oversight but the HSA is the authority with responsibility for liaising in those situations. Regardless of the setting, the advice has been very clear to everyone. Ultimately, the onus is on employers and operators to ensure the health and safety of their staff is central to all that they do. There is also a strong onus on staff to ensure they work with their employer and call out any issues that arise. If there are any instances where people's safety is not being properly catered for, they must be brought to the attention of the HSA, which will move immediately to ensure the correct conditions are put in place and to hold to account anyone who is not following the guidelines.

See this speech in context