Bríd Smith (Dublin South Central, People Before Profit Alliance)
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146. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the details of discussions or contact he has had with the mediator in a dispute (details supplied); his plans to resolve same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43819/20]

Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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I extend my sympathies to the workers in Debenhams who have lost their jobs. I fully appreciate how difficult the situation is for those involved and their families.

The talks facilitated by the Chair of the Labour Court, Kevin Foley have now concluded and he has issued a report reflecting the outcome of that process. I want to thank Kevin Foley for his efforts and encourage all sides to consider his findings carefully.

Negotiations on enhanced redundancy are a voluntary matter between the liquidator and former employees. The Government has been supportive of the best outcome that is possible for the workers, within the legal framework available. There is no legal scope for the Social Insurance Fund to supplement or ‘top-up’ redundancy payments.

While the Government cannot interfere with the High Court-overseen liquidation process, it has always sought to ensure that the concerns of workers are heard, and that the State’s employment and training services are responding to the needs of the ex-Debenhams workers.

Therefore, in recognition of the exceptional circumstances of this case, as reflected in Kevin Foley’s report, the Government is willing to allocate a fund of €3 million to support career guidance, training, education and business start-ups for the former Debenham workers.

This special Fund will be administered by SOLAS on behalf of the Government. Detailed criteria for draw-down from the Fund will be developed over the coming days in consultation with their trade union representatives.