asked the Minister for Labour the present position with regard to the industrial relations proposals, the discussions which have taken place since the summer; and when it is anticipated that action will be taken on the proposals and implementation of the proposals will proceed.
Ceisteanna — Questions. Oral Answers. - Industrial Relations.
18.
Earlier this year I published proposals for the reform of trade dispute and industrial relations legislation. The main elements of these proposals were first, the replacement of the present immunities based system of trade dispute law by a system that would give workers a positive right to strike; secondly, that trade unions would be required to have a provision in their rule books to provide for a secret ballot before strike or other industrial action was taken; thirdly, that there be reform of the existing industrial relations institutions, including the establishment of a labour relations commission; fourthly, that there be and, a change in the arrangements governing the granting of injunctions; fifthly, that there be additional measures to facilitate trade union amalgamations. I met representatives of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions earlier this month and discussions on the details of the proposals are being held with the ICTU on Thursday. It is my intention also to have further discussions with the FUE in the near future.
Work on the proposals has been continuing in my Department and is now at an advanced stage. It is my intention to submit proposals to the Government at an early date with a view to having a Bill circulated.
May I ask a number of questions? When is it hoped to have a Bill circulated because the complicated discussions with the FUE and the ICTU have been going on for some time? Can the Minister tell the House if there is a cut off date? This is an issue which could be debated forever but somebody will have to make a decision and introduce legislation. Would the Minister outline what work has been undertaken on the labour relations commission? What action has taken place in this area since the summer?
It is the Minister's intention to introduce the Bill to Government at an early date.
When is an early date? Is it before Christmas or in the New Year?
Hopefully before Christmas but I am not sure.
And what about the labour relations commission?
I do not have information on that here except that it is part of the background and is mentioned as a major portion of the Bill. I am not aware of what exactly has been completed with regard to that commission.
Does the Minister have any information about the amendment of the 1906 Act which deals with the positive right to strike? Has it been agreed that it will be amended? There were discussions between the Department officials and the trade unions, with which I am familiar, but I wish to know what is the final version of what will happen to the 1906 Act and the positive right to strike.
I am calling Question No. 19.