Proinsias De Rossa
Ceist:19 Proinsias De Rossa asked the Minister for Labour if he will confirm that May Day will now be made a public holiday; when the holiday will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - May Day as Public Holiday.
This issue was raised in discussions on the Programme for Economic and Social Progress between the Government and the social partners. There was no agreement to include the issue in the current Programme for Economic and Social Progress. The Government did, however, undertake that I would review the legislation relating to holidays. The issue of designating May Day as a public holiday will be considered as part of that review.
This has become an old chestnut at this stage——
Well timed.
——and I regret greatly that on the chart I have here of the situation throughout Europe we are unique. A predecessor of the Minister managed to give us a May Day holiday in October 12 or 14 years ago——
That was our friend "Dimples."
——which was a peculiar time to pick for May Day and a celebration of workers' rights.
A Deputy
A moveable feast.
The Minister himself has not moved on and we are all very happy that we continue to have him. Does he think it likely that he might act on this before he moves on and that Ireland will appropriately mark this celebration of workers' rights?
This year I am particularly upset that it is not a holiday because it would fit very well with a particular event that day. The employers are very much opposed to this concept. It is estimated that it costs £50 million to give a public holiday; I suppose there is an argument in that. It might take some time yet and is not part of the programme, but I think we have taken a step nearer.
Would the Minister intervene with the FIE on this matter? It could only happen in Ireland that the FAI virtually declare May Day a public holiday this year. We ought not to rely on the FAI but should seek the agreement of the FIE in the matter.
I will be continuing discussions. In the meantime we might all ask the Ceann Comhairle to take account of the fact that we need some time to get to the match next week.
I would be very glad to facilitate Deputies in that regard.
We could come in earlier or stay later.