Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I too want to raise the issue of workers in section 39, section 56 and section 10 organisations. The last thing they want to do is engage in industrial action. They are at the coalface of looking after our most vulnerable, in organisations such as the Irish Wheelchair Association, RehabCare and children's disabilities services, which are being shamefully neglected by the Government. We have to support these workers. It is disgraceful that they work beside colleagues who earn an extra €4 an hour. They do not want to go on strike. They offer a lifeline to the people they look after every day and provide them with a sense of hope. They light up their lives. They want to be with them, not on picket duty. I am looking for a debate on this issue, and my Rural Independent Group colleagues want a debate on this issue. The strike is imminent. Gardaí and barristers are on strike. Does the Government want the whole country to be on strike? These workers are a dedicated group of people and provide specialised services willingly and happily, but they want and need parity of esteem.

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