Seanad debates

Friday, 24 July 2020

Companies (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Covid-19) Bill: Committee and Remaining Stages

 

10:00 am

Photo of Robert TroyRobert Troy (Longford-Westmeath, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Senator Gavan. I should have mentioned Debenhams workers, since the matter was raised by a couple of speakers. We cannot introduce legislation today that will deal with the situation retrospectively. I support the workers. As a previous speaker said, the Minister of State, Deputy English, the Tánaiste and I have met them. The workers raised important matters of concern which deserve and are receiving thorough consideration. It is important that all stakeholders, including political representatives and the Government, do not raise expectations unduly. I want to ensure that everything that can be done within the confines of the law is being done to ensure a satisfactory outcome for the workers of Debenhams.

The Duffy Cahill report has been mentioned. I certainly think there are proposals in the report that warrant further consideration. As Minister of State with responsibility for company regulation, it is my intention and a commitment in the programme for Government for those recommendations to be considered to see how and which of them will be implemented. I agree with what the Senator said. There is little point in producing reports if we are to ignore their findings and conclusions. I do not think the implementation of everything in the Duffy Cahill report would have prevented what is happening in Debenhams. The case is before the High Court and we cannot interfere with that process. I will not say any more on the matter now.

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