asked the Minister for Labour if he will give details of the extent to which formalised procedures for joint consultation are in use in Irish industrial concerns and of the policy followed by his Department in relation to the extension of such procedures.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Industrial Consultations Procedures.
21.
I presume that the Deputy is referring to bodies like works councils in industrial undertakings and not to joint industrial councils or other bodies concerned with preventing and settling disputes. I have not got precise information as to the number of such formal bodies in Irish industrial concerns but I know that it is small. On numerous occasions at public functions and in private discussion I have advocated improved communication procedures and I have in particular been inviting attention to International Labour Organisation Recommendation No. 129 which deals with the subject. I am aware also that every opportunity is availed of by industrial relations officers of the Labour Court to encourage managements and trade unions to develop consultative machinery suitable to their particular industries or firms.
Would the Minister consider setting up a working party of trade union and employer organisations and departmental staff with a view to giving a shot in the arm to the urgently needed development of such bodies now that we are facing freer trade?
I would encourage in every way the setting-up of councils which would bring about these procedures, but I would not make it compulsory.
I am not suggesting the Minister should make it compulsory, although this is compulsory in the EEC. Would the Minister not start the ball rolling by urging the introduction of such procedures on a voluntary basis?
The ball has started rolling already. We have some workers' councils.