asked the Minister for Labour his views on whether there is an onus on companies to employ disabled people; and if he will consider introducing legislation in this field.

I am strongly of the view that employers should employ disabled persons and indeed many employers do so.

However, legislation which would make the recruitment of disabled persons obligatory could be a double edged weapon as it could militate against disabled persons obtaining employment at a level comparable to their abilities and skills.

I should add that the Minister for Health has the primary responsibility for the training and placement of disabled persons.