Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

I apologise for my error in omitting to mention that a majority of employee representatives or employees could approve such agreements. I thought I had referred to this option. While I understand the Senator's point on the complexity of the information in certain circumstances, the provisions of the legislation arising from the directive apply to employees in a particular work environment. It is entirely reasonable, therefore, to confine the transfer of information and the process of consultation to the employer and employees. Although one could argue that trade union officials are excluded, one could also argue that the parish priest, bank manager or solicitor is also excluded from the process. The Bill provides for employees to have access to the information and consultation process. It is not reasonable to suggest that a specific category of person is excluded from participation in the process.