59 Mr. D'Arcy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the evidence she has been able to ascertain in regard to the veracity of claims that employers are by-passing Irish workers and going directly for non-EEA workers as these can be paid lower wages and are more easily dismissed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16534/00]

96 Mrs. Owen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the evidence she has been able to ascertain in regard to the veracity of claims that employers are by-passing Irish workers and going directly for non-EEA workers as these can be paid lower wages and are more easily dismissed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16622/00]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 59 and 96 together.

I do not have any evidence, at this stage of Irish employers by-passing Irish workers and going directly for non EEA workers on the basis that they can be paid lower wages and can be more easily dismissed. I should point out that non nationals working here would have the same rights in labour law as other persons, including the application of minimum wage entitlements. However, if the Deputy has any evidence of such case(s) I would be glad to have the details.