Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I would hate for people watching and listening in to think that this is not an extraordinarily positive day. I take Senator Gavan’s points on board. The Minister of State is right that Senator Gavan should acknowledge that we are beginning a new chapter. As Senator Dolan rightly said, this is about access to sick pay. We must strike a balance. Senator Gavan should acknowledge that this is a positive outcome that has been reached by means of a process of consultation and engagement.

We all come to the debate with different viewpoints. As I keep saying, however, the fundamental thing is that we must get the balance right. Senator Burke is right. Many of the people we are talking about are employers who are paying far more than the minimum wage. Whether the Senator accepts that or not, it is the reality. I will bring it to many employers in Cork, where I live-----