Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Leader for agreeing to this amendment to the Order of Business, and I thank the Minister for coming before the House this afternoon. I endorse wholeheartedly everything that Senator Byrne has said. This dispute began six months ago and we are no further on, in spite of a number of interventions. We are asking the Minister to intervene personally to ensure these workers get the entitlements they richly deserve.

I would also like to mention another difficulty taking place eight miles down the road in Bailieborough, County Cavan, involving Flair International. Deputy Brendan Smith raised this issue with the Minister in the Lower House yesterday. A provisional liquidator was appointed to Flair International on 6 June. This company has a very proud tradition for many decades in Bailieborough, with a skilled workforce producing a quality product with a substantial export market. Fifty six workers were laid off with very short notice last Monday by Flair International. Along with the Lagan Brick workers in Kingscourt, I ask the Minister to intervene personally in this dispute and ensure these workers, who are only going to get their statutory entitlements, are given everything to which they are entitled.

I endorse everything Senator Byrne said about the Lagan Brick workers in Kingscourt, County Cavan. It is deplorable that State contracts are given to this company while it deals with these employees and their families in this manner. I thank the Minister for coming to the House this afternoon.