Martin Heydon (Kildare South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Again, I thank both Deputies for raising this point. It is important that is discussed in the House because these people do crucial work for us around the country. It is a complex area because of the historical nature of section 39 and section 56 workers. Similar considerations arise in respect of other sectors across government, adding to the complexity in seeking to resolve matters in any specific sector. All parties that are involved want to see a meaningful resolution that will improve sustainability and the ability of these vital organisations to actively recruit and retain staff, and for those staff to be happy in their circumstances.

The Departments have made an offer of a pay increase in line with offers that have been accepted by community and voluntary workers in other sectors. This offer is still available and the Department remains available to return to the WRC. I encourage the unions and employers to return to this process and to avoid industrial action and the negative impacts this will have on service users so we can try to come to a satisfactory conclusion for all sides.

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