Mary O'Rourke (Fianna Fail)

I concur with other speakers in welcoming the Minister of State to the House. I have discussed this Bill with him for a long time. He is the right man for this job and is scrupulous in taking notes. His speech was informative and sensible but not wordy. I have an interest in the Bill because I was formerly Minister of State with responsibility for labour affairs. At that time the Health and Safety Authority, which is an excellent body, was under the leadership of Mr. Tom Walsh. Mr. Walsh, who is now a consultant, is very capable, knowledgeable on health and safety matters and impressed me by his dedication to work.

In 1989, the first health and safety legislation was introduced in response to an EU directive. The current Bill forms part of the codifying process in this area. It is welcome that fines, which were derisory, will be increased with the passing of this Bill. Formerly, fines did not keep pace with inflation or correspond with the seriousness of an accident. Heed will be paid to these more stringent penalties. The board of the Health and Safety Authority includes a good mix of employers, employees and Government nominees.

Harrowing accidents, often involving children, occur in the agricultural sector. It is sometimes inappropriate for a three year-old child to be present when farm work is being carried out. Slurry pits and machinery are the two greatest dangers on farms. It is difficult to maintain a constant watch on children but this must be done.

Tripping on a non-stick mat can result in severe injury or death. It is to the detriment of the economy that a significant amount of time has been lost due to a lack of attention in the work environment. Many firms employ health and safety officers to provide information. These officers sometimes meet on a social basis, when they hold quizzes and go on nights out. I was lucky to attend a number of these enjoyable events.

The EU is sometimes accused of being intrusive but its emphasis on workplace health and safety is worthy. Workers are empowered through access to information. It is important that members of the workforce take an interest in health. I am glad that the Minister of State is taking an active role in this matter. His Department includes many diligent officials who have a keen interest in legislation. I commend the Bill to the House and thank all who have contributed to its passage.