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

I thank Deputy Bríd Smith for bringing forward this very important Bill. As matters stand, pensioners have no rights to be included in negotiations. That is wrong. We need to ensure that people have an adequate and a fair pension when they reach 65 years of age. This has not been happening and pensioners have not had a voice.

We thank the former ESB workers who gave valuable service and came out in the dark of night and turned on the power. We also thank telecom and local authority workers. Going back in time, they came out when roads were blocked by trees across in the middle of the night. Now they are at a vulnerable stage and time is not on their side. I ask the Minister of State not to kick this any further down the road or delay because time is not on the side of these people.

The women of Ireland who raised the current generation have not been treated fairly or adequately with their pensions. Many people who gave their lives and showed such dedication have not been properly looked after.

In the case of forestry workers, I know well how hard they worked for Coillte and the State. Whether it was early or late, they worked from start to finish, from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. They did not stop, even with midges and every other misfortune on top of them. They are appealing now for fair play and I am asking on their behalf that they be included and get their proper increases as they fall due.

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