Frank Fahey (Galway West, Fianna Fail)

I thank Senators for their co-operation in finally passing the Bill. In response to Senator Leyden, we are preparing an information booklet. The details will be displayed on the departmental website and it will be available through the employment rights information unit in my Department. The information will be widely available.

The legislation gives new rights to employees across all sectors. It is long overdue, but better late than never. I thank the Members for their co-operation and their constructive contribution to the earlier Stages. I also thank my officials for their outstanding work on the Bill, especially in the past few weeks, when significant changes were made. Its provisions will cost the Exchequer an extra €50 million annually. In view of this, there was much consultation and discussion with the Attorney General and others, particularly the Department of Finance.

Question put and agreed to.