Catherine Murphy (Kildare North, Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I am not a member of the committee so I did not take part in the Committee Stage debate on the Bill but I find common ground with both Deputies Nash and O'Reilly and I am supportive of amendments Nos. 3 and 9. People who are most at risk need to be most protected. I can see why the Irish Congress of Trade Unions has expressed serious concerns. Not only are people here for a very short period and, as Deputy O'Reilly said, would not be able to orientate themselves with the rights under employment law, but very often there is an issue with language. In addition, such workers often live in a congregated living environment and they do not mix with other people who could give them information, so they are a particularly vulnerable and exposed group. The concerns that are being raised are valid.

I have come across a couple of cases similar to those outlined by Deputy Stanton. People do not understand it when it happens, but I can think of a couple of cases myself. I am sure other TDs can too. It is not a large-scale problem, but it is an issue. It is unfair on the partner that he or she cannot work. In one case I came across the spouse was a doctor but could not work. It is daft at a time when there is a need and in this case I think there was a recognition of the qualification. It shows that very often we have highly skilled people that we need, yet they are sitting at home. That is not the way to organise things. It is not very fair.

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