Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 21 Jun 1995

Vol. 454 No. 7

Written Answers. - Postal and Telecommunications Services Act.

Mary Wallace

Question:

46 Miss M. Wallace asked the Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications if he accepts the trade union conditions that there be no interference with the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act, 1983, as it relates to conditions of employment if they are to support any strategic alliance. [8958/95]

Minister for Transport, Energy and Communications (Mr. Lowry)

I am aware of the position adopted by the trade unions in relation to section 45 of the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act, 1983, which is the section relevant to conditions of employment.

The section contains provisions for varying of pay and conditions of service from Civil Service norms in accordance with a collective agreement negotiated by the company with a recognised trade union or staff association. The legislation should not, however, be used to sustain positions which would nullify the critical elements of a package to create a successful Telecom Éireann in a competitive market.

It is primarily a matter for the company and the relevant unions and staff associations to agree on employment conditions appropriate to the market and competitive conditions in which the company will find itself in future to ensure its continued viability.