2. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Taoiseach to report on his recent engagement with the US President. [13747/25]

Sentiment score: 0.15

I thank the Taoiseach for the report on the engagement with the US President and, indeed, on the issue of Gaza. I note that he raise that with the US President. The Palestinian ambassador and Palestinian representatives specifically asked that Ireland would use all diplomatic means at its disposal, including our connection with the US, to raise the need for peace and for a ceasefire for the people of Gaza and an end to Israel's genocide, so I hope that was part of that conversation. The Taoiseach also mentioned the very concerning prospect of tariffs and the increased volatility of the Trump Administration's approach with the announcement just last week by President Trump that he would impose 50% tariffs from 1 June and then saying that would be postponed to 9 July. We in Labour have argued for many years now in the face of this sort of volatility, and it is particularly important now, that a sophisticated job retention scheme should be developed in the form of a short-time work support scheme for employers here where there is this level of volatility and uncertainty around tariffs. Finally, has the Taoiseach been briefed on the use of Shannon Airport by civil contractors for the US Government deporting people to South Sudan in breach of US migration law?

Sentiment score: 0.36

16. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Taoiseach when the Cabinet committee on the economy, trade and competitiveness will next meet. [15144/25]

Sentiment score: 0.00

In the context of trade and the proposed CETA agreement, I understand the Cabinet was to approve an arbitration amendment Bill today due to serious concerns about the investment court system proposed in CETA. Will the Taoiseach confirm whether the legislation was approved today? If so, when will the draft heads of Bill be published? I also want to ask about concerns that the Government is rowing back on workers' rights commitments and commitments to recognise collective bargaining and on sick pay. The Government has delayed the introduction of two additional days of paid sick leave that were promised. Will the Taoiseach confirm for workers when the additional entitlement to sick pay will be introduced? The original intention was to introduce two extra days in 2025, taking the number to seven, and a further three days were to be introduced in 2026, taking it to ten days. Is this now indefinitely delayed?

Sentiment score: -0.04

It was Deputy Byrne.

Sentiment score: 0.00