Fidelma Healy Eames (Fine Gael)

What I said was meant as a compliment.

I wish to highlight the new OECD report on labour policy in Ireland. I am of the view that this report is worthy of debate, particularly in the context that it outlines the small gap that exists between social welfare payments and declining wage levels. I am not necessarily stating that social welfare payments should be reduced, but it is obvious that workers are bearing a great deal of pain. Consideration must be given to this matter. Regardless of whether people are on social welfare or working, the Government must remember that they have commitments and debts to pay. At present, we are paying the State's debts and, as a result, people are being placed under a great deal of pressure.

There is a great deal of merit in the suggestion that the Government should offer an allowance or a stipend to companies where jobs are at risk. We should pay such a stipend instead of allowing people to go on the dole at a cost to the State, taking into account social welfare payments and the loss of tax revenue, of €20,000 per capita per year. I surveyed companies in Galway with regard to this matter and I was informed that a stipend of even €5,000 per worker would allow them to retain employees and ride out the hump of the recession. There is need for a serious debate on labour policy.