Michael D'Arcy (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I raise the issue of part-time workers and how unfairly some employers are treating their staff. Many people work 15 to 25 hours a week. In the past such employees had the opportunity to condense their work timing into three days. It has been brought to my attention that some employers, mainly the multiple supermarkets, in particular Tesco and Dunnes Stores, are forcing their staff to come in for three hours a day five days a week. This is unfair, as it adds to the cost of travelling to and from work and also child care. On top of this, those working part time are disallowed from claiming social welfare payments for the days they work, although for a shorter time period. The hours could be worked in a shorter number of days. This practice is particularly unfair for those on lower pay. I, therefore, ask the Leader to invite the Minister for Social Protection to discuss the issue of social welfare payments, as well as the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation to discuss what we can do about this issue which has a huge impact on many thousands of people. Up to 25% of the people employed in the State work part time. This practice is unfair, unreasonable and inequitable. If we could do something about it, it would have a significant impact for many.