asked the Minister for Labour the action he proposes to take to reduce the incidence of unofficial disputes.
Questions—Ceisteanna. Oral Answers. - Unofficial Strikes.
20.
I am extremely concerned about the incidence of unofficial disputes and their repercussions on industry and on the community generally. The number of such disputes has, indeed, been at an unacceptably high level for many years. This problem is primarily one for resolution within the trade union movement because such disputes involve in the main issues such as adherence to agreed procedures and questions of discipline.
I am hopeful that the Commission of Inquiry on Industrial Relations will come up with recommendations for improvements in this area.
If, pending the commission's report, it becomes necessary to take the action referred to, I will make proposals to the Government on whatever initiatives may be called for. Any action taken, however, must be effective and preferably acceptable to all the interests concerned.
I understand the Minister's difficulty. I would ask him not to wait for the report of the Commission of Inquiry on Industrial Relations on this subject because the matter is far too urgent. Will the Minister not agree that within the trade union movement itself there is a great deal of impatience with the number of unofficial disputes? Further, does the Minister not agree that it is the trade union movement itself that is most threatened by these disputes? Perhaps a consensus could be reached between the social partners and the parties in this House on this subject? Therefore, will the Minister consider taking an initiative on the matter?
I share the concern of the Deputy and the community regarding the incidence of unofficial disputes. I would point out to the Deputy that the percentage of man-days lost as a result of unofficial disputes in 1977 was 40 per cent and from January to October 1978 it was 23 per cent. The average figure regarding unofficial disputes for some years has been at a high constant figure, higher than this year's, and I accept the seriousness of the situation. However, as I said in my reply, this problem is primarily one for resolution within the trade union movement. If initiatives are called for I shall have no hesitation in recommending them to the Government but any action taken must be effective and preferably acceptable to all the interests concerned.
I know it has to be effective and acceptable to the interests concerned. I am suggesting to the Minister that perhaps there are steps he could take that would be acceptable to all the interests concerned and which would not be politically suicidal for the Minister. I know this is a powder keg situation.
We cannot have a debate on this matter.
This is an important issue.
However important it is, it must be in order.
Would the Minister not stand idly by, and would he seek a discussion with the social partners and the parties on this side of the House on what might be done in the national interest to improve the situation especially in view of the discipline which will be required under the EMS if we enter into it?
As I have said, there is no worsening in the situation in regard to unofficial disputes serious though it may be. If the Government could simply legislate for industrial peace that would have been done long ago.
I did not suggest legislation. Something could be achieved if the Minister sought discussions with this side of the House and the social partners.
The Deputy is giving information rather than seeking it.
Maybe the Minister needs information. Could I invite the Minister to have consultations to see if an immediate improvement could be achieved in industrial relations?
I answered that question already.
That is a very reasonable request.
The Minister is standing idly by.
That is nonsense.