Feargal Quinn (Independent)

I do not always agree with Senator O'Toole but in this case I agree with his comments on social partnership through which a great deal has been achieved. Opinions on this differ, for example, in regard to the problem in France, Senator O'Toole said it could not happen here. That is not correct. There is a difference here but we must work hard because what happened in France could happen here. It is difficult once one has given something to take it away again.

The French have a serious problem because their legislation makes it difficult to create employment. Some 24% of young people are out of work in France, partly because employers are loth to give them a job for life when they know that in a risk-taking entrepreneurial marketplace jobs for life are no longer guaranteed. The French Government is attempting to encourage employers to take on new employees in the knowledge that if it does not work out they can let them go again.

The Minister of State has pursued the correct policy in this legislation, in making sure there is compromise and an agreement to discuss, talk and inform before steps are taken. I congratulate the Minister of State and his officials on their determination to ensure they listened to all sides in bringing this legislation to its conclusion.