The Louise Woodward case had highlighted concerns about the training of Irish girls going abroad as au pairs or nannies, maintained Ms Ann Ormonde (FF). These concerns were felt most acutely in the education field, where young girls were being advised to take up such positions, she said. It seemed Ireland had not yet signed the Council of Europe agreement dealing with pay and conditions which employers were expected to provide for these services.
Training and other aspects needed to be looked at and the House should hear the views of the appropriate Minister, added Ms Ormonde.
The House leader, Mr Donie Cassidy, said the Woodward case had captured the imagination of practically the whole world. He would make arrangements for a debate on the matters which had been raised by his Fianna Fail colleague.