Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I welcome the Minister to the Chamber. I commend my colleague, Senator Gavan, on bringing this legislation forward. It is a vital piece of legislation. I also welcome all the guests, who have worked hard on this legislation. I would love if the Minister could support this. I really would.

I have worked in the industry. Some 35 years ago, I was a separated mother with two very small children and the tips were the difference for me in buying a bag of coal to heat the flat I was in. Thankfully, I had the support of my mother who was able to look after my children when I went to work as I was on my own with them. That is what happens today for workers. It was a question of whether I would be able to afford a bag of coal to keep the flat I lived in warm for my children while they slept. There was no central heating, as one can imagine, in those days in a very cold old house, and it was the difference. Every single penny counted. No doubt workers today who are on a minimum wage depend so much on those tips. It is a vital piece of legislation. Even today, when I go into a restaurant I always make sure I leave a decent tip. To think that it may not be going to that person who has served me is just wrong. I would love if the Minister would support this legislation.

I also want to speak to the amendment, if that is okay. The proposed change-----