I thank you, a Cheann Comhairle, for allowing me to raise this matter on the Adjournment. Ward International has been operating successfully in Athlone for about nine years. It is the subsidiary of an American company and specialises in the manufacture of machines for the making of cardboard boxes. This company produces between seven and ten high value machines each year and I understand has been trading profitably for at least the past five years.
This plant has a skilful and dedicated workforce of about 60 employees, drawn from a wide catchment area, many of whom are supporting families, paying mortgages, etc. Difficulties arose between the workers and the company concerning contracts and agreements about work practices. Negotiations commenced and the matter was referred for conciliation.
The conciliation officer heard the case and suggested that the main point of contention — flexi-time arrangements — should be resolved between the two parties. He declared that he was available at any time to assist in seeking a resolution to the dispute.
Lengthy negotiations took place between the two parties with the workers conceding on almost every point. The workers proposed to return to conciliation and to refer the matter to the Labour Court but the company refused to allow the case to be referred for further conciliation or arbitration. The workers were left with no option but to withdraw their labour and they are now in the third week of this industrial action.
The strike is now at a critical stage with no production at the plant and workers enduring much hardship. I am aware that the Minister of State, Deputy O'Rourke, who is present in the House, discussed the matter with management and workers about three weeks ago but, unfortunately, the strike is continuing. I call on her to intervene again at this late stage to see if the points of disagreement between the two parties can be resolved amicably.