Frank Feighan (Sligo-Leitrim, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy has outlined many different issues, including the tip jars, holiday pay and back pay. I will bring those concerns to the Minister.

The Debenhams Bill, or legislation like it, does not come under the remit of my Department, but I will bring the Deputy's suggestion to the Minister.

The Government appreciates the impact this dispute has on the affected workers, and the Minister is disappointed by the suddenness of the announcement. For its part, the State will do all it can to support the workers at this most difficult time. We will ensure that eligible employees receive statutory redundancy and other outstanding wage-related entitlements from the Social Insurance Fund. As the Deputy will be aware, under the redundancy payment scheme, an eligible employee is entitled to two weeks' statutory redundancy payment for every year of service plus a bonus week, subject to a ceiling of €600 per week. In insolvencies, entitlements covered under the insolvency payments scheme include outstanding arrears and wages, holiday pay and payments in lieu of minimum notice, subject to certain limits.

Finally, the Department of Social Protection is aware of this issue and is available to assist these workers. I urge all those who are affected to contact their local Intreo centres for advice and support.

As I said, the Deputy has raised a lot of issues and I will bring them back to the Minister.

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