Aidan Davitt (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

After listening to nearly 23 minutes of debate on the national minimum wage, zero hours, casual work and casual employment arrangements, I wonder if we are discussing different legislation.

I acknowledge the work Senator Gavan has done on this Bill. Fianna Fáil has some concerns about certain areas in the Bill which we hope can be strengthened to ensure its easier passage through the House. Fianna Fáil support efforts to improve conditions for workers. We are also in favour of increased transparency for workers and consumers in how tips and gratuities are treated and to make it clear to consumers that they are voluntary. However, this has to be clarified by legislation, as this Bill attempts. The British Government has developed a code of practice on service charges, tips and gratuities, as well as cover charges, which are voluntary. We believe such a code should be considered as it would strengthen the current position. It would improve information to customers and workers while enabling businesses to operate in a fair and transparent manner, benefiting both workers and consumers.

This measure, along with addressing issues concerning idiosyncrasies in low pay and precarious hours, would go some way in protecting workers in the service industry. We have some concerns with the legislation but, hopefully, they can be teased out during its passage.