Enforcement of unpaid compensation must first apply to public sector - Fleming

Fianna Fáil Spokesperson on Public Expenditure Seán Fleming has urged the Jobs Minister Richard Bruton to address outstanding employee compensation cases in the public sector before taking action against private sector employers.

Deputy Fleming commented, “I welcome Minister’s plans for a crack down on private sector employers who have dodged compensation payments awarded to employees. However the Government needs to get its own house in order first.

“I am aware of a number of cases of Government Departments or State agencies dragging their heels on compensation they owe to former or existing employees.  I brought once such case to the attention of Minister Brendan Howlin on July 3^rd last, involving a Labour Court ruling against a VEC for unfair dismissal of a staff member. In response, the matter has been kicked from one Department to another and the former employee still has not received the money awarded by the Labour Court.

“The Government has so far refused to provide details or confirm the number of awards by the Labour Court that have not yet been honoured by public service employers.

“I agree wholeheartedly with Minister Bruton’s moves to take proceedings against employers who have failed to meet their obligations in this regard. However, the Minister will lack credibility unless the outstanding cases in the public sector are addressed first. The Government must lead by example and stamp out the problem within the public sector first.”