Vol. 538 No. 1
90 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the investigation which has been held into allegations of serious breaches of the rights of immigrant workers at a factory (details supplied) in County Roscommon highlighted in RTE news programmes on 30 May 2001; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17212/01]
On foot of a general complaint, an authorised officer from my labour inspectorate visited this company a week prior to the recent media reports. The company was inspected for compliance with requirements set down under the Minimum Wage Act, 2000, the Payment of Wages Act, 1991, and the Organisation of Working Time Act, 1997 which covers holidays, rest periods and maximum working time. The examination of the records presented during that visit indicated that there was no breaches of labour law in regard to the various Act mentioned. The records presented were well maintained, of a high standard and the company representatives were fully co-operative with the inspector.
Arising from the subsequent reports, the inspector has been in contact with all the parties concerned and has arranged meetings with existing and previous employees. The issues, which have been highlighted already, and anything else of concern will be examined and the relevant employment regulations and appropriate redress mechanisms will be explained fully to the individuals concerned. Where it is indicated that there have been violations of employment rights by the company the inspector will record the pertinent details and follow up with the company.
In the event that evidence of non-compliance with labour legislation is found, my inspectorate will seek redress for the individuals who have been mistreated and, if appropriate, a prosecution will be initiated.
