asked the Minister for Labour the proposals he has to give greater protection to part-time workers in view of the deficiency of existing legislation in this regard.
Written Answers. - Part-time Worker's Protection.
643.
I am at present examining the question of protection accorded to part-time workers under existing labour legislation. Part-time workers are already covered by the provisions of the Conditions of Employment Acts, 1936 to 1944, the Anti-Discrimination (Pay) Act, 1974, the Employment Equality Act, 1977 and the Payment of Wages Act, 1979. The legislation pertaining to health, safety and welfare at work also applies to part-time workers.
I am aware that the eligibility threshold in certain areas of legislation, such as that dealing with unfair dismissal, minimum notice, holidays, redundancy and maternity protection, excludes employees who work for shorter periods than the prescribed minima. The question of extending eligibility of part-time workers under such legislation will be considered as part of the current review. My Department are also taking part in discussions on EEC Commission proposals to extend protective legislation to part-time workers. The Irish Congress of Trade Unions have made a comprehensive submission to me in this matter and the subject was discussed at a recent meeting which I had with members of the Executive Council of Congress.