Vol. 558 No. 3
68 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will report on alleged breaches of labour law in the treatment of non-national workers involved in the Dublin Port tunnel; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24184/02]
I am aware of media reports regarding the alleged breaches of labour law in the treatment of non-national workers involved in the Dublin Port tunnel. The labour inspectorate of my Department has sought on two occasions over the past few weeks to meet with the employer so as to inspect records to ensure compliance with statutory entitlements under employment rights legislation. Despite leaving contact details and making enquiries from local Garda stations, efforts to meet the employer have not been successful. However, other avenues are currently being pursued and we expect to be in a position to meet with the employer's accountant shortly so as to inspect records. In the event that evidence of non-compliance with employment rights legislation is found the inspectorate will seek redress for the individuals who have been mistreated and, if appropriate, a prosecution will be initiated. The inspectorate operates objectively, fairly, impartially and without any differentiation with respect to nationality. It is important to note that our employment rights legislation, which establishes the statutory rights applicable to workers whether part-time or full-time, high or low skill, is applicable to all people working in Ireland. The legislation makes no distinction whatsoever between the rights of foreign workers and any other workers.
