Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister for his commitment to fighting the case on behalf of these workers with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. I am conscious that departmental speak has always surrounded section 39 workers. I refer to their employment being the responsibility of the local voluntary organisations and, as such, no relationship existing between the State agency and the local organisations other than the provision of funding. However, the reality back in 2010 was that the State required these organisations to cut salaries by 4% by reducing the funding provided. It is all well documented. The State knows full well what the different grades and rates of pay are and funding is provided pro ratain that regard, on the basis of whole-time equivalents, etc.

Notwithstanding the lack of a direct contractual arrangement, therefore, it is important that there is a recognition that, in essence, the State is funding these individuals. It should not matter whether there is a section 39 or a section 56 service level agreement in place. These people are owed that money. If we are to stand for anything in this House and across the public service, it must be based on fairness. The situation as it is now in this regard is not fair, cannot be justified and must be addressed. In real terms, it must be addressed in this round of budgeting. Like the Minister, I will also take up this issue with the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform to ensure that, in so far as it is possible, we right the wrong perpetrated in respect of these people.