There is a whiff of political retribution about the determination of Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Micheál Martin to vindicate the rights of Turkish workers employed by Gama and to ensure that the construction company fulfils its legal obligations, in view of the poor record of his predecessor, Ms Harney, in the matter. Not so long ago, the Tánaiste and Minister for Health hung Mr Martin out to dry over his failure to deal expeditiously with the illegal deduction of payments from pensioners in nursing homes.
The Tánaiste came under pressure in the Dáil yesterday because Gama workers had not been adequately protected during her period as Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. In the course of tough exchanges with opposition TDs, she denied inviting Gama to Ireland during a promotional visit to Turkey. And she described the treatment of its workers as "a disgrace". However, the record shows that some years ago, two complaints about improper levels of payment were rejected by her department, one without any investigation whatsoever. And Ms Harney assured a ministerial colleague that the allegations were without substance.
It would appear that the dogs in the street suspected something rotten was going on at Gama worksites. Political representations were made to a number of ministers - including Ms Harney - and to opposition TDs at their constituency clinics. But nothing happened. The trade union Siptu, which represented a majority of the Turkish workers, also failed to act. It was not until Socialist Party TD Joe Higgins raised the matter in the Dáil last February that a full inquiry was instituted.
To be fair to the Tánaiste, the labour inspectorate and Siptu, it was not easy to identify the organised and systematic abuse which is alleged to have taken place. The great majority of the Turkish workers did not speak English. They were concerned that they would lose their jobs if they complained. And reputable Irish firms provided assurances on behalf of Gama that all was well.
Whatever about the Cabinet in-fighting, the treatment of Gama workers has raised important questions for the Government concerning the granting of major construction contracts and the ability of its inspectorate to police the industry. Mr Martin has already signalled that more inspectors will be employed. And a new form of employment permit will be introduced as a protection for migrant workers. These are welcome developments, as is the Minister's decision to refer a contested, unpublished report into Gama practices to the Revenue Commissioners and the Garda.