Joe O'Toole (Independent)

I support Senator Terry's amendment because she is 100% correct. It would be disgraceful if the previous section were abused. It could be abused, as Senator Terry has pointed out, unless her current amendment is accepted. The previous section and her current amendment will provide protection. No one could accept from an employer anywhere a situation whereby people with disabilities were paid less than the minimum wage. In light of all that has been said about the minimum wage in all sorts of arguments and discussions, I appeal to the Minister of State to accept the amendment. It is an area in which Ireland has led the way in Europe. This would leave a gap which might be used or abused by unscrupulous people. However, if the Minister of State accepts Senator Terry's amendment, he will get the best of both worlds. He will get the adjustment allowed under the previous section and he will get a protection which will be provided by the minimum wage. It is a worthwhile and useful amendment which gives added value to the legislation in terms of the protection of people with disabilities. I appeal to the Minister to accept Senator Terry's amendment.