Vol. 535 No. 3
25 Mr. Callely asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she is Satisfied that appropriate procedures are being followed to address industrial relations disputes; if there is a noticeable increase in such disputes and strike action; if she is further satisfied that the code of practice on procedures in essential services is working; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [11646/01]
Figures published by the CSO at the beginning of April indicate that there were 39 strikes and 97,046 man-days lost in 2000 compared with 32 strikes and 215,587 man-days lost in 1999. While the reduction in man-days lost during 2000 is a positive development, I am concerned at the extent of industrial action currently taking place.
The State provides dispute resolution facilities to assist the parties resolve their differences through agreed procedures. Where the parties make full use of these procedures the evidence shows that a very high percentage of disputes are resolved through the conciliation and adjudication process.
There has been a high level of adherence to the industrial peace and stabilisation clause of the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness. Notwithstanding this there have been cases in both the public and private sectors where industrial action has occurred which is in breach of the PPF.
In the talks which concluded in December last on an adjustment to the terms of the PPF, I was pleased to note that both ICTU and IBEC undertook to actively pursue adherence by their respective members to the key terms of the pay agreement. They also committed to agreeing voluntary codes of practice to address in particular the maintenance of essential services.
Adherence to industrial peace has been underpinned by a national implementation body representing Government, IBEC, CIF and ICTU which will meet quarterly to ensure delivery of the stability and peace provisions of PPF. Where particular difficulties arise or are anticipated, this group can be convened at short notice.
