asked the Minister for Labour when the review of labour law initiated by his predecessor will be completed; when the results of this review will be made available to the Deputies; the plans, if any, he has to introduce new laws for the protection of workers or to amend existing legislation; whether loopholes have been found to exist in some legislation which need amending if they are to serve the purpose for which they were intended; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Written Answers. - Review of Labour Law.
14.
My approach to the various legislative enactments which come under the aegis of my Department is as follows:
The Deputy will be aware that proposals for the reform of trade dispute and industrial relations legislation were published by my predecessor last year. I have had preliminary exchanges of views with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions and separately with the Federated Union of Employers on this complex subject. I hope over the next few months to see what agreement I can get from the social partners on possible action in this area.
In the area of worker participation I am examining how I should proceed in relation to the public sector. It would be my intention to publish a Bill before the end of this year.
I am having proposals to amend the Anti-Discrimination (Pay) Act, 1974, and the Employment Equality Act, 1977 assessed to ensure that they address the difficulties which the operation of the two Acts has brought to light. I am also considering possible amendments to the Unfair Dismissals Act, 1977, and the Payment of Wages Act, 1979. It is my intention to publish a discussion document shortly which will examine the options for amendments to these four Acts and to seek the views of interested parties on suggested amendments.
With regard to occupational safety and health, a Bill is being drafted to give effect to the main recommendations of the commission of inquiry who reported in 1983 and I intend to introduce this measure in the Oireachtas this year.
Regulations are currently being drafted to give effect to a number of EEC Directives relating to the protection of workers from exposure to chemical, physical and biological agent, lead and asbestos, as well as directives relating to the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous substances and preparations. These regulations are in addition to those made in 1986 concerning dangerous substances and major industrial accidents.