Jerry Buttimer (Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I acknowledge it is about striking a balance.As my colleagues, Senators Seery Kearney, Currie and Maria Byrne, have said, we have been engaging with the Local Jobs Alliance. From talking to constituents who own and operate small and medium-sized enterprises, we understand there is a concern about the costs of this to the employer as well. I know I spoke earlier about the employee, and it might be said that I am riding both horses, but I am not. I am conscious of the burden we are putting on the employer while recognising we need employees as well. I am talking about people who own and operate small and medium-sized enterprises in the hospitality sector or the construction sector, including in subcontracting, and who provide services to people and in communities.

The important issue is the rebate. Before Covid, hard-pressed businesses were under pressure - bhí siad faoi bhrú - and, post Covid, they still are. There is a need to look at what the small or medium-sized enterprise gives us in its contribution to the local economy and employment. We are looking to ensure that, if possible, no additional financial exposure is imposed on them and no burden is imposed on the Exchequer. We should consider the principle of the rebate option for small and medium-sized businesses. I know the Minister of State is open to engagement.

We are talking about the convenience store, the newsagent, the grocer, the retail sector in general, the vintners, the licensed premises and the restaurants. We are conscious that in some cases these businesses operate antisocial hours. When we are all out having a good time, these people are working and providing services we avail of.

I am digressing for a moment, which I know I have a habit of doing, but part of the problem with the Dublin Airport Authority, DAA, is that to be asked to come in to work at 3 o'clock in the morning, for example, a very unsociable hour, and to perform duties in a pressurised environment requires not only great skill and great training but also proper remuneration.

I have made my point. The Minister of State knows what I am saying. I support my colleagues.