Emer Higgins (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

The Deputy and I agree that when it comes to certain occupations, it may not be appropriate to have indefinite periods of working life and that is what this legislation provides for. There are complexities where there are existing contracts between employers and employees, particularly in the private sector, that specify a mandatory retirement age. What we are doing here is making changes in that regard.

Regarding engagement, my officials met IBEC, ICTU and SIPTU representatives to discuss this last October and again as recently as three weeks ago. We are consulting widely on this and are listening to stakeholders. We are going to make improvements in this area for both workers and employers.

See this speech in context