Notwithstanding the Government's initiative, we are now in the mainstream of European social thinking in regard to labour laws and legislation to protect workers. It has been a long haul. Those people who criticise Europe and who are against the concept of the European Union should remember that most of our social legislation has come via European Union initiatives. This legislation is a further example. It proves that the Government is prepared to look at directives of this nature and to incorporate them into Irish law. All our administrations, since we joined the Union, have been prepared to do this. The Government knows the legislation will not only protect the workers to whom it refers but will also increase and improve competitiveness. I welcome the Bill and commend it to the House.