asked the Minister for Labour if it remains the Government's intention to reform the law in relation to safety at work; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Safety at Work.
37.
As outlined in the Programme for National Recovery the Government are committed to the implementation of the main recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry on Safety, Health and Welfare at Work. The drafting of the legislation is now at an advanced stage.
The draft legislation is lengthy and complex and its preparation has involved extensive consultation with wide ranging interests.
Would the Minister concede that he is already in breach of the undertaking in the Programme for National Recovery which committed the Government to publishing the legislation last year? Clearly that has not been done. When will we see this legislation? When will it be before the House and what is the timetable for its enactment?
It is difficult to give that information. We are now on the sixth draft and it will then go to the Attorney General's office. There are a number of very detailed issues and four drafts were gone through in 1987. I know that the people involved are doing all they can. As soon as there is anything definite, I will let Deputies know.