David Cullinane (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I accept the Minister of State's response. I understand what is permissible and what is envisaged in the legislation and what the Labour Court will have to do in terms of consultation. However, the Irish Congress of Trade Unions is saying is that is not good enough, that it should be given the opportunity to state its case and that adequate notice should be given. We are seeking to strengthen that provision which, the Minister of State has said exists, and which we believe is too weak, as does the Irish Congress of Trade Unions. It would make sense and would strengthen the Bill if the Labour Court was to make a judgment that the unions were no longer substantially representative. At least the trade unions would be able to make a case rather than just being consulted, which is my understanding of what is being provided for in the Bill.