Fergal Browne (Fine Gael)

I agree with Senators who raised the question of the child protection officers being appointed with regard to schools. Bullying is a significant problem in secondary schools in particular, and the Government has given only €2 million instead of the requested €5 million. Perhaps we should examine whether resources are being well spent. It may make more sense to give money to teachers to counteract attacks both on staff and pupils in schools.

I thank Senator Tuffy for raising the issue of the Comerama workers. I attended a meeting, along with other Senators and Deputies from across the parties, regarding promises made to these workers that they would receive enhanced redundancy packages, as the textile firm is going out of business. These workers are out by approximately €10,000 each. If the workers had known they would not get the enhanced package, they could have worked an extra day a week until such time that a new redundancy package was formulated. These workers are protesting outside the House on a cold December day.

Some 16 workers who worked for longer got a better package. The workers misled by the Tánaiste have since been treated with contempt. Government Deputies and Opposition Deputies and Senators are also involved. The current Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Deputy Martin, was sent a letter on 13 May but he did not have the manners to reply. The workers had to come to Dublin today to accost the Minister on the street, as it was the only way to get his attention. It is disgraceful.