Joanna Tuffy (Labour)

Senator Mooney referred to the issue of competitiveness, which was also raised last week by Senators Ulick Burke and Cox. I raise it in the context of job losses, including those announced yesterday in Navan, County Donegal and Macroom. I note the commitment given by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Harney, in the Irish Independent today to do everything possible to ensure the affected workers receive the assistance and retraining necessary for future opportunities. I know a number of people, some close to me, who have lost their jobs recently but have seen no evidence of any initiatives in this regard by the Government. I ask that the Minister come into the House to explain what she means by assistance and providing further opportunities. Many of the actions of the Government, for example, in relation to third level investment, are at odds with the notion of taking action to improve our competitiveness and create jobs. If the Minister comes before the House, I request that the debate include the issue of cutbacks in community employment schemes. At a time of job losses we should not be implementing cuts in schemes which provide a bridge to employment for the unemployed.