asked the Minister for Labour if it is intended to extend the scope of joint industrial councils; and if an examination of their effectiveness is at present under way.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Joint Industrial Councils.
52.
Mr. O'Leary
Joint Industrial Councils are voluntary associations of workers and employers. The Deputy is, no doubt, familiar with Part V of the Industrial Relations Act, 1946, which sets out the conditions under which a council becomes qualified for registration in the Labour Court, if it wishes to be registered. Apart from that, the scope and activities of these councils are matters for themselves.
While I am not clear as to what the Deputy has in mind in referring to the scope and effectiveness of these councils, I can say that these councils can perform most useful functions and I will be happy to consider any ways in which I can encourage the parties forming councils to make better use of them in promoting harmonious relations between employers and workers.