Vol. 563 No. 4
114 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when it is intended to introduce the promised legislation to improve statutory redundancy terms; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8118/03]
On 18 February, 2003, the Government approved the drafting of a Bill, on a priority basis, to give effect to the new enhanced redundancy payments scheme. The heads of Bill have been sent to the parliamentary counsel and it is expected to be able to bring the Bill to Government in the next couple of weeks. Under the proposed new legislation the distinction between service under and over 41 years will be removed; there will be two weeks pay for every year of service; the bonus week will be retained; rebate of 60% to the employer will be retained; there will be a simpler method of calculating service, changes in the treatment of absences from work and the treatment of service abroad; simplification of application forms; and a new IT system, including e-government aspect. Following ratification of the new partnership agreement it is the Tánaiste's firm intention to bring the increased statutory payments into effect at the earliest possible date.
