Vol. 558 No. 6
58 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps she intends to take to address the concerns of the trade union movement regarding the inadequacy of the current redundancy payment legislation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24865/02]
In April 2002 the Government established a review group, in the context of social partnership, to examine the operation of the redundancy payments scheme to ensure the scheme best meets the requirements of employers and employees. The review group consisted of representatives of the social partners – IBEC, CIF, ICTU – the Departments of the Taoiseach, Finance, Social and Family Affairs and Enterprise, Trade and Employment. The redundancy review group commenced its work in April 2002 and the Government considered the report in October 2002. The report has been published.
Agreement was reached in a wide range of practical areas, which will contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of the operation of the scheme. To give effect to these efficiency measures the Government has agreed to prepare legislation that will reflect the conclusions of the redundancy review group and other minor changes in redundancy legislation and to proceed with planning a new IT system which will implement the legislative changes proposed by the review group and make the delivery of the redundancy scheme more efficient by maximising the use of e-government.
Agreement could not be reached within the group on a range of improvements in the level of benefits payable under the scheme. Therefore, it is expected that any improved benefits will be negotiated within the current round of social partnership discussions.
