With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 25 and 27 together.
As I indicated in the Dáil on 22 July last, I intend to extend to all sectors of the economy the legal immunities under the Trade Disputes Act, 1906, which currently apply to trade unions catering for private sector membership. Amending legislation to bring about this change should be introduced in the current Dáil session. I will then consult with trade union, employer and other interests on possible wider initiatives which might be undertaken to bring about an improvement in our industrial relations practices so as to reduce the incidence of work stoppages.
A Bill dealing with safety standards on offshore installations is being prepared.
I consider it appropriate that legislation to amend the Anti-Discrimination (Pay) Act, 1974, should also encompass the Employment Equality Act, 1977, as these Acts are construed as one Act. I said here on 22 July last that a review of the operation of these two Acts was necessary. That review has commenced. Following it, any necessary amending legislation will be introduced without delay.
The operation in practice of the Protection of Young Persons (Employment) Act, 1977 is also being assessed so that any problems or shortcomings can now be identified and rectified by way of amending legislation. In the meantime, I intend to introduce, in this Dáil session, an order prohibiting the employment of children under 15 years of age during the school term.
In regard to the Unfair Dismissals Act, 1977, my Department are at present carrying out a review of the operation of the Act to determine if, after four years of operation, it should now be amended in any respect so as more fully to achieve the objectives initially set for this piece of protective legislation.
Legislation will be required to give effect to the provisions of the EEC directive relating to the protection of employees in the event of the insolvency of their employers within the framework of the redundancy code. This directive provides for the setting up of a fund which would pay arrears of wages and related entitlements to workers in the event of their employers' insolvency. The directive must be implemented by October, 1983.