I thank all the Deputies who contributed to this debate. I reiterate that the Government's approach to employment legislation in recent years has been deliberate, balanced and firmly grounded in the lived realities of both workers and employers. Across remote and flexible working, sick leave, pay, collective bargaining and sector specific protections, we have pursued reforms that strengthen security predictability and fairness at work, while also recognising the need to maintain competitiveness and economic sustainability. Importantly, these reforms are not developed in isolation. They are informed by research consultation with social partners, engagement with regulators and evidence gathered through statutory reviews and economic analysis. We have responded to profound changes in how people work through the right to request remote working and flexible working, enhanced protections around working times, strengthened sick pay entitlements and the right to disconnect. We have modernised our employment framework to reflect the change in the labour market. Where legislation has been introduced, the Government has committed not only to implement it but also to review it in order to ensure that measures operating as intended can be refined, where necessary. At the same time, decisive action has been taken to improve pay and conditions for low-paid and vulnerable workers. These include substantial increases in the national minimum wage, continued progress towards a living wage, stronger regulation to sectorial employment orders and employment regulatory orders and enhanced protections for agency workers. Together, these measures demonstrate a sustained commitment to improve job quality and addressing insecurity at work. I also want to be clear that there are no constitutional or legal barriers preventing workers or employers in Ireland from freely exercising their right to collective bargaining where both parties choose to do so. The voluntary process is supported by an extensive statutory framework that underpins and reinforces collective bargaining, promotes constructive engagement between the social partners and ensures that dialogue and representation operate in a fair, structured and effective manner. Ireland's action plan to promote collective bargaining represents a significant milestone. It reflects a renewed focus on social dialogue, effective employee representation and strong industrial relation institutions, all of which are the cornerstone of a stable, high-quality labour market. Through phased implementation, robust governance and close engagement with employers and trade unions, we are building an industrial relations framework that is both resilient, balanced and responsive to future challenges. It is also important to be clear about the fact that improving the quality of work does not fall to any single measure or piece of legislation. It requires steady and co-ordinated action across pay, work conditions, representation, enforcement and economic policy. This is precisely the approach that the Government continues to take. The progress made in recent years has been real and tangible. It demonstrates a clear commitment to fairness and dignity and the opportunities in the workplace. While challenges remain, the direction of travel is clear. We will continue to listen, to review and act ensuring that Ireland remains a country where good work is supported, workers are protected and enterprises can grow and provide sustainable employment. I commend these measures to the House and reaffirm the Government's ongoing commitment to building a labour market that works for every worker right across this country in every sector.

Sentiment score: 0.47