Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Irrespective of who we listen to, there needs to be proper accountability and transparency. We should all remember that with the €2.9 million of Government money or other moneys going into the FAI, it is not the persons involved but the organisation which benefits. That is why probity with other people's money is important. Senator Craughwell referred to a letter with which I am not familiar. The Cathaoirleach said the matters are sub judice. It is important regional development officers are not affected.The development of the game at grassroots level is important. Women's soccer is the fastest growing sport in the world. We must continue to support and encourage it. It is not good enough that the women's national football team has to tog out on a portakabin or bus, or that they must go cap in hand to get jerseys or gear from someone. That is why it is important that we draw a line here, getting answers but ensuring that the future of the FAI is secure so that we can promote all aspects of Irish football.

Senator Gavan raised the very important matter relating to staff of Virgin Media being able to have representation at union level. I make no apology for saying that they should not be treated as they are. I am not entirely familiar with what he spoke of although I have seen some articles. I read that the company was looking for 65 redundancies, and in the end it was 40, as part of collective bargaining, although it may not be collective bargaining. The honest answer is that I am not sure but I do stand up for the right of people to be able to join unions so that they can protect their rights and entitlements. That is something that I will never recoil from. It is disappointing that this is happening and I do not support it in any form. The Senator is right. It will not be featured on "The Tonight Show" tonight, there will be no discussion on it, and Ivan Yates et al will make their usual comments, which we have come to expect of them. However, what is important is that people's right to join a union, to be protected, to have their pay and entitlements, and their right to collective bargaining are looked after. I stand with the Senator on that.