Paul Gavan (Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I second the amendment proposed by Senator Ó Clochartaigh to the Order of Business.

I refer to the Hastings dispute where a group of workers has been out on the picket line in all weathers for six weeks. I am glad to report that there was a tremendously successful march in Westport last Saturday. My colleague, Senator Conway-Walsh, was there, as was I. There was tremendous support from the SIPTU trade union on the day. However, what struck me most was the support of the Westport locals. These workers were cheered through the streets of Westport and Jack O'Connor gave a rousing speech on the day. I am glad to report that there are now signs of progress; the company has apparently agreed to go back into talks. Tribute should be paid to the union and, in particular, the members in Westport for the courage and determination they have shown.

The dispute highlights the vulnerability of workers, particularly when we consider towns in rural Ireland where they can feel quite isolated at times. It is incumbent perhaps on the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation to attend the House. There are a number of outstanding issues on the agenda for trade unions in terms of supporting workers' rights. Many of them came up during the debate on tourism and the hospitality sector yesterday. For example, we still have no sign of any progress in terms of implementing the report of the University of Limerick on low and zero-hour contracts. I genuinely do not understand the delay. In fairness to the last Government, it seemed to recognise that there was an issue and the need to move on. The report is nearly 18 months old at this stage. We really need to move on this because workers are vulnerable. Unfortunately, unscrupulous employers continue to push for a race to the bottom in terms of conditions. We have the means to build in protections for workers. I am genuinely puzzled as to why the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation has been silent for as long as it has. I request that the Minister would attend the House. However, I am delighted to report good progress in the Hastings dispute.