Terry Brennan (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Approximately two weeks ago, each and every Member on both sides of the House agreed that what had happened to the Clerys workers was unbelievable and totally disregarded them.Like the General Secretary of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, Ms Patricia King, I believe employers should be prevented from being directors of companies for up to five years if they fail to meet their legal obligations to their employees. As I stated, all Members agreed that the Clerys workers had been treated outrageously. They have been disregarded and treated with disdain, which is totally unacceptable. Current legislation sets out that employers must enter into a 30-day consultation period before redundancies are implemented. That is the statutory legislation period required, but it was not adhered to in the case of the Clerys workers. These loyal workers with commitments, mortgages, etc. were given one hour's notice. Company law should be amended such that any employer or someone working on behalf of an employer who fails to comply with the procedures can be removed as a director for at least five years. I support the cause and call for an urgent debate to consider the legislation required.