Patricia Stephenson (Social Democrats) | Oireachtas source

I am very happy that this Bill has come forward. I am delighted Fianna Fáil introduced it. I support the intention and essence of the Bill. As Senator Nelson Murray said, it would be fantastic to see it extended to hospitality workers. There are lots of data available to us. For example, a study from Galway indicated that 76% of hospitality workers experienced verbal abuse, 64% experienced psychological abuse and 15% experienced physical abuse. It would make a difference to them to be included. Senator Nelson Murray also spoke about the leisure sector. The measures must have a breadth to them to ensure the Bill is responsive.

As Senator Ryan mentioned, it is important to be honest with people and to take a holistic approach. It is necessary to protect workers in the retail space. We are all in agreement that no one should be in a dangerous position when they go to work. Taking a holistic approach includes providing a living wage and respecting people both inside and outside the workplace. I echo what was said in that regard.

The effect of abuse does not stop immediately after it happens. It can have long-term physical and psychological effects. We should consider the inclusion in the Bill of mandating support for affected workers. Senator Cosgrove mentioned extending sick leave. What else can we do? We could include legal assistance where necessary, have paid leave for recovery and provide access to counselling.

Senator Clonan mentioned that the hospitality and retail sectors are both made up of young, low-paid workers, often from migrant backgrounds. They are at higher risk of exploitation, misogyny and racist abuse. We could be mindful of that and include relevant measures in the Bill to address the intersecting identities people have that put them at greater risk. They have less agency to speak for themselves and there is potentially even a language barrier.

While it is good to have an increased Garda presence, I do not believe the lack of guards is the root cause of the problem. The root cause of crime is poverty and social exclusion. It is very good that we are having this debate today. In an hour or two we will also have a discussion on youth diversion. These things are inherently linked. The increase in crime comes from people being excluded from society, and suffering as a result. Violent theft is always a bad thing but what is the root cause driving it? It is not just due to a lack of gardaí on the street. I am supportive of the essence of the Bill. I hope we can work together and that we can add a few things to strengthen it on Committee Stage.