Joe O'Toole (Independent)

This situation is not in our interest. IBEC should be asked to speak up on this issue. We need to increase the inspectorate size and we need to ensure the work permit becomes the property of the employee. Any outstanding EU procurement directives should be put in place.

A culture of impunity appears to be developing among some employers. I am uncomfortable with all employers being tarred with the same brush as Gama Construction. That is grossly unfair. Those who are acting unscrupulously and exploitatively are doing so with some impunity. The legislation should be framed in such a way that a company is required to prove compliance if challenged. The Minister's work would be easier and the number of inspectors could be reduced if agreement were reached with employers that registered and accredited trade union representatives could see the facts for themselves. This would save calling in the Department's inspectors and would prevent exploitation. Companies seeking permits should be required to prove to the Department that they are fair employers. According to the information on the Department's website this point needs to be proved. There should be a requirement to issue payslips and any company that does not issue payslips should be in trouble.

When companies compete for public contracts the Department should be reassured the employers are compliant. In recent years the Minister has said the work permits system has readily facilitated the change of employment of the migrant worker. I do not agree with that. I agree with the Minister's point that registering every employer ensures traceability. I would like this to be done for employers overseas and it should happen immediately. Once the employer initiates the permit it should be the property of the worker and the worker should be able to renew it in accordance with the existing procedure. The Minister should be satisfied the company is compliant with labour and equality legislation. Not only should migrant workers be paid a reasonable amount, they should be paid the same as their Irish colleagues.

I compliment the Minister, the Department and the Government on introducing the new minimum wage on May Day. This happened despite the mealy-mouthed attitude of IBEC. It was a nice gesture and it is good to see things moving in the right direction.