Lisa Chambers (Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Cathaoirleach. It is most unfortunate to have somebody heckling from the floor as I make my reply, which is a lack of respect.

Senator Paul Gavan spoke this afternoon about the respect at work document launched by a number of unions, including SIPTU and Mandate. The Senator talked about the challenges some workers face in becoming unionised and challenges at work. I believe we are all in support of employees having access to unions. The Senator has raised important points. On low-paid workers I wish to put on the record that under the most recent budget we have seen an increase in the minimum wage by 80 cent per hour, which is a significant increase.A lot of work is being done by the Government to protect those on the lowest incomes and ensure people are getting a fair wage. All of the social welfare supports announced in the budget, such as the cost-of-living package, show the Government is taking the issue very seriously. I take on board the points raised by Senator Gavin about unions and the challenges people face in some workplaces when trying to deal with unions and issues with their employment.

Senator Davitt raised an important point on councillors' pensions and the Moorehead report. I concur with the Senator's remarks. A number of recommendations from the report have yet to be fully implemented. Much good work was done by the Minister, Deputy Darragh O'Brien, to implement the key recommendations of the report on councillors' pay, which has been really welcome. This was worked on for a number of years but there is still a way to go. I concur with the Senator's remarks that it is important, in this House, that we continue to ensure we advance the requests of councillors and that their pay and conditions are where they need to be.

Senators John Cummins and Maria Byrne again asked for a debate on national aviation policy. The request has been forwarded to the Department. On aviation policy, I have a particular interest in Ireland West Airport Knock. Senator Byrne has a keen interest in Shannon Airport and Senator Cummins has an interest in Waterford Airport. The overarching theme from all contributions is that the regional airports need support. I disagree with Senator Byrne on maintaining the cap at Dublin Airport. That needs to be looked at in terms of a growing country.