Diarmuid Wilson (Fianna Fail)

On numerous occasions we have requested the Minister to come to the House to outline his plans and give us an opportunity to bring forward our proposals, but he has ignored us. I could understand he not being allowed to attend before the referendum, but there is no excuse for him not to come before this House in the coming days.

I join my leader, Senator Darragh O'Brien, and Senator Thomas Byrne in requesting the Leader to provide 20 or 30 minutes for the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, Deputy Richard Bruton, to outline the Government's position on the dispute involving the Lagan Brick workers who are almost six months in dispute in Kingscourt, County Cavan. I would really appreciate it if the Leader could facilitate our request.

Just down the road in Bailieborough, County Cavan, Flair International, a company with a skilled workforce and a very proud tradition for many decades – it provided employment for more than 100 people at one stage – which was producing a quality product for a substantial export market went into liquidation on 6 June and 56 workers lost their jobs. All they will be entitled to is statutory redundancy payments. If the Leader can facilitate the appearance of the Minister for 20 or 30 minutes, I ask that he also address the latter issue to ensure the workers receive their full entitlements.