Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

With regard to Deputy Paul Murphy's comments, what P&O Ferries has done to its staff is appalling. I am glad that those who are employed under Irish law could not be treated in this way and have not been. I understand that some Irish seafarers who are based in other jurisdictions are affected. What P&O Ferries has done is wrong. I understand that the UK Government is examining this to see if what the company has done is legal. There may well be a legal remedy to this. I note that the union concerned, RMT, backed Brexit and is now calling for the nationalisation of shipping lines. It is a pity that those workers are represented by a union that really is not acting in their interests and is not doing them any favours, but they should not be punished for that. What has happened is wrong and the UK Government really should do what is necessary to intervene.

The bonus for healthcare workers and other Covid pandemic workers is a payment of €1,000 for people who worked full time for that period. It is pro ratafor those who did not work for the entire period. The detail of that is being worked out. We want to get that resolved as soon as possible in order that the payment can be made.

If I may, and I beg the Ceann Comhairle's indulgence, I will mention two bereavements. The first relates to the passing of Mr. Jim Kelly, one of Ireland's most senior diplomats at the United Nations. I have been asked by the Taoiseach to say that Mr. Kelly passed away suddenly in recent days. I extend my condolences to his family, his friends and his colleagues in the Department of Foreign Affairs, for many of whom he was a father figure. We certainly regret his loss.

In my capacity as the president of the Oireachtas rugby club, I acknowledge the sudden and tragic death of Mr. David Hill, who died on the field of play at the weekend. That was quite a shock to everyone. I extend my condolences to the Scottish Parliament and to Mr. Hill's family, friends and colleagues. My thanks to the IRFU, St. Vincent's Hospital and others who kicked in and helped out after the tragedy occurred.

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