asked the Minister for Labour if he will state Government policy on industrial democracy as a method of improving industrial relations in this country.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Industrial Relations.
39.
Industrial democracy is a concept which can, in practice, have a wide variety of meanings. It is under examination by various bodies in this country, including the Irish Congress of Trade Unions. It is also under consideration by the International Labour Organisation. I hope that the organisations concerned will continue to study this matter constructively, and come forward with proposals which will have regard to Irish circumstances and traditions and to our economic and social environment. In the meantime my Department is keeping developments on this subject at home and abroad, under review.
Is the Minister aware that Irish Actors' Equity have suggested that it be created in Telefís Éireann? Is he further aware that State companies have nearly the worst record for strikes in the country and could not industrial democracy be implemented in these firms which use public money?
I am aware of the possibility of experiment in public bodies but, as I say, industrial democracy is a concept which has many meanings to different people and the people intimately concerned with it are studying it. The Government, of course, have demonstrated their commitment to industrial democracy in the structure of many boards of management in State bodies.
Does the Minister not believe that State bodies should give a lead if they possibly can?
I have already said that if the Deputy assumes that decision-making remains a function of management, then the structure of the management of many of the State bodies reflects the Government belief in industrial democracy.