Vol. 529 No. 1
157 Mr. Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the actions she will take to reduce the problem of bullying in the workplace; if she has considered changes to labour law in respect of allowing bullying as a legitimate reason in proving a case of constructive unfair dismissal; the discussions she has had with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions on this matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1486/01]
The issue of workplace bullying is being examined by a task force on the prevention of workplace bullying which I established and which is operating under the auspices of the Health and Safety Authority. The task force is focusing on identifying the size of the problem and the employment sectors most at risk as well as developing proposals for practical programmes and strategies, both to prevent workplace bullying and to provide a more appropriate co-ordinated response from the relevant State agencies.
The Irish Congress of Trade Unions is represented on the task force and is, therefore, in a position to contribute fully to its deliberations. I have had informal discussions with it on this matter.
