Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I move amendment No.4:

In page 12, between lines 23 and 24, to insert the following:

“Report on seasonal work 3. The Minister shall, within 12 months of the passing of this Act, lay a report before both Houses of the Oireachtas reviewing the conditions and wages of workers holding a permit for seasonal work.”.

The Minister of State is very welcome to the House. She might not be aware that much work has been done by the Houses and Departments on the rights of migrants and integration. My colleagues and I in the Civil Engagement Group have always been passionate about social justice. In our personal and professional lives, we are very committed to raising awareness and taking measures to alleviate the social inequalities and deprivation faced by many living in Ireland. Our economy depends heavily on the commitment of migrant workers and the essential skills they bring to our industries through their respective roles. Earlier this year, RTÉ reported that of the 2.7 million people in employment, 20% are non-Irish.

Despite the diversity of our society, racism and discrimination still exists, as we all know, and is experienced by people in a variety of ways. As legislators, we must strike a balance between meeting the demands of the labour market and upholding the rights and dignity of those who come here to alleviate our shortcomings. We must ensure there are safeguards and oversight mechanisms in place to support participation in employment and facilitate workplace retention. These amendments are designed to create such mechanisms within the framework of the Bill.

Employment is much more than a source of income. It is a place where relationships are formed and community ties are built. For those coming to live and work in Ireland, it is often their only opportunity for social integration. The connection between work and social inclusion has been long established. The Minister of State will be familiar with the work my colleagues and I have done on poverty, discrimination, mental health, integration and work-life balance. If the Bill truly seeks to create a more responsive and flexible system, we must ensure that it is underpinned by our understanding of how these factors intersect and influence the personal lives and well-being of those living in Ireland.