Richard Bruton (Dublin North Central, Fine Gael)

We are introducing a mechanism which allows for flexibility but I accept that it will not suit everyone. Everything in the area of industrial relations involves balancing the views of different people. I am of the opinion that what we have put forward is a fair system in the context of achieving such a balance. The Labour Court has a long record in being fair to both sides and it will be pivotal to the change we are bring about.

We are also introducing flexibilities in respect of the JLC system. Previously, inflexibilities existed in the context of the way in which Sunday work was dealt with. Instead of having an absolute and rigorous criminal law in respect of how provision is made for Sunday work, we will be applying to grocery shops and restaurants the same general provision that obtains in respect of Sunday work in bookshops and bars. That is reasonable and we are introducing a flexibility which is not unfair but which is balanced.