Eamon Gilmore (Dún Laoghaire, Labour)
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Question 137: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of successful prosecutions brought by the labour inspectorate in each of the years 2003 and 2004; the largest number of such prosecutions which related to a single employer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7300/05]

Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)
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The number of successful prosecutions initiated by the labour inspectorate in 2003 was 20. In 2004 the labour inspectorate initiated 14 successful prosecutions. The largest number of prosecutions which related to a single employer was nine.

The primary function of the labour inspectorate is to seek compliance and rectification of any breaches identified, including payment of any arrears due to employees. Therefore an important measure of the effectiveness of the labour inspectorate is to look at the arrears of pay collected on behalf of employees. For the periods in question the recoveries were as follows: 2003 —€226,000; 2004 —€486,000.

Inspectors pursue allegations of worker mistreatment and when evidence of non-compliance with the relevant employment rights legislation is found, the inspectorate seeks redress for the individual or individuals concerned and, if appropriate, a prosecution is initiated. Successful prosecution can be dependent on adequate support from witnesses.