Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 1 Mar 2000

Vol. 515 No. 4

Written Answers. - National Wage Agreement.

John V. Farrelly

Question:

57 Mr. Farrelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has received queries from a person (details supplied) in County Meath regarding the national wage agreement and the effect it will have on the textile and clothing industry, taking into account the severe competition in the world market for this type of product; if the Government has made a decision to implement terms and agreements which would result in loss of jobs in this industry; the number of jobs in this industry; and if she will make a statement on the matter [6279/00]

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Ms Harney)

I have received a communication regarding the national wage agreement from the Irish Clothing and Textiles Alliance which represents the combined membership of the Irish Clothing Manufacturers Federation, the Irish Textile Manufacturers Federation and the Association of Woollen and Worsted Manufacturers of Ireland.

Under the draft agreement on pay and conditions of employment between the Irish Congress of Trade Unions and employer organisations, the parties accept adherence to the terms of the agreement as essential, with particular reference to the clauses on pay, economic and com mercial circumstances, partnership and industrial peace and stabilisation and are committed to improving living standards through pay increases and significant tax reform.

The agreement provides that increases shall be negotiated between employers and unions through normal industrial relations machinery, due regard being had to the economic, commercial and employment circumstances of the particular firm, employment or industry, whether arising from exchange rate movements or otherwise. The need for ongoing co-operation with change and for continued adaptation and flexibility accepted by the parties may include necessary measures to sustain competitiveness and employment on the implementation of clause 3.

The Government and I are aware of the important contribution the clothing and textile sectors make to the Irish economy. There are approximately 15,000 people employed in these areas. My Department will discuss the proposed national wage agreement with the Irish Clothing and Textiles Alliance in view of its concerns.