Cian O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

As the Minister of State, Deputy Richmond, who is present, is aware, Iceland workers arrived at work yesterday morning to find the stores shuttered without any explanation from the employer. A woman with seven years of service turned up for work but was locked out. This happened after months of chaotic working conditions and uncertainty. The air conditioning had been turned off, leading to unbearable conditions, with workers operating in sweltering conditions of more than 35°C. Workers in Coolock, in my constituency, had to engage in a sit-in just to get basic assurances about having their rights met. What action is the Government taking to support the Iceland workers and to ensure they get everything to which they are entitled? What action is being taken to ensure these kinds of wild west practices do not spread and are not pursued by other employers? From his engagement with Iceland, is the Minister of State aware of any further planned store closures in the coming days and weeks? Did he know about the food safety issues when he met Iceland representatives on Tuesday, 13 June?

See this speech in context