Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael)

I welcome the successful passing of the Bill through the Dáil.

This Bill will introduce a new employment right and will facilitate workers who want to continue in employment until they first access the State pension. It also makes the necessary provision for the limited cases where a lower retirement age may be required. The Bill gives effect to a Government commitment under the Pensions Commission's recommendations and implementation plan. This is a balanced and proportionate measure. It respects the rights of employees while recognising the operational needs of employers. It is a positive step in improving adequacy of income for older workers and it reaffirms our long-standing policy to encourage and support longer and fuller working lives.

I thank Deputies for all their contributions and engagements, especially on Second Stage. I also thank the officials within the Department of Enterprise, Tourism and Employment for their hard work on progressing the Bill. I look forward to the Bill progressing through the Seanad.

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