David Cullinane (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I wish to be associated with the words of thanks expressed by the Leader and previous speakers to all staff at all levels in Leinster House. I say the same to the Leader, the Cathaoirleach, the Leas-Chathaoirleach, all those who sit in the Chair from time to time, the group leaders, the Whips and all other Senators for their contributions in the course of the year. No doubt next year will be as tough as this one, but it will provide opportunities for us to make a real difference and have an impact, as I am sure we will.

I draw to the attention of the Leader something that came into the public domain yesterday, namely, the withdrawal of contracts for newly qualified nurses from the 2012 group. A memo was issued to all directors of nursing stating anybody among the 2012 group of newly qualified nurses would have his or her contract withdrawn; essentially, he or she will be made unemployed and then re-employed in February at reduced rates. The unions involved, including the IMNO, are scathing about this move because, once again, it is young nurses who are being targeted and will be affected. Many of them have said they will leave the country because they will not be able to survive on these wage levels, given that they have gone through college, being trained and do a very difficult job which they are being asked to do on a salary of ¤22,000 when their colleagues who were employed in 2010 and 2011 will be on higher salaries. In many debates comparisons are made with the position in the United Kingdom and other countries. In the United Kingdom newly qualified nurses earn £27,000, or ¤33,146. This is, therefore, a very real problem. The INMO and other unions are organising a press conference today on the matter. It is serious and one we need to examine. Will the Leader say what exactly has happened in this regard? Is this Government policy and what action will the Government take?