Paddy Burke (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I can see the point Senator Gavan is making but I agree with the Minister of State. Good legislation has to stand on its own two feet. It cannot be the case that we are bringing in legislation but we will have to amend it in a particular way because of something else. It has to stand on its own two feet. What Senator Gavan is proposing is a matter that can be brought forward by a different Department. The fee to see a doctor could be waived or whatever by another Department. This is new employment law legislation and it has to stand the test of time and on its own two feet.

There are winners and losers in every legislation that is brought forward. There may be wins in the Bill for employers. Their staff might stay with them for longer as they have better conditions, for example. However, employers are going to lose as well because there will be a cost to this. It will be a big cost on employment. Every day, employers come to me seeking permits. I have spoken to the Minister today in respect of several people seeking permits. There are many companies that have to pay way above the minimum wage to get people to work. Most people are on the living wage now, rather than the minimum wage. I agree with the Minister of State. This is new legislation and it has to stand the test of time and on its own two feet.