Vol. 506 No. 5
28 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures, if any, planned to provide for greater participation by employees in the running of firms; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15854/99]
69 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the Government's position on the directive proposed by EU Commissioner Flynn which would require companies to consult more widely with their staff, particularly in view of the fact that Ireland has no comprehensive worker consultation rules on its Statute Book; if Ireland will support the proposed directive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15837/99]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 69 together.
The Government through Partnership 2000 and through the work of the national centre for partnership, encourages and supports partnership at the level of individual enterprises. An extensive range of employee participation structures already exists as well as a number of measures which provide for information and consultation of employees. However, a new concept of partnership which promotes and facilitates employee share participation could be an important factor in promoting healthy competitive enterprise structures in this country.
I want Irish business to adopt a more open and imaginative attitude to gain-sharing with their workers. Many of our big companies have employee share ownership schemes in operation. They recognise that their workers are part of the team but we also need to promote such schemes at the level of small businesses.
The European Commission has proposed a Council Directive establishing a general framework for informing and consulting employees in the European Community. My Department will consult with the social partners and the text of the proposed Directive is currently being examined in preparation for the consultation process.
