Industrial Disputes.

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 7 February 2006

Tuesday, 7 February 2006

Questions (91)

Arthur Morgan

Question:

170 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on whether the sacking of a shop steward with the union, Mandate, from their position in a company (details supplied) for wearing a union badge on their store uniform and the company’s subsequent refusal to attend a meeting regarding the disciplinary action with the worker in question due to the fact that they were accompanied by their trade union official is unacceptable; and the actions he intends to take to address such actions by employers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4111/06]

Written answers

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. Killeen)

The system of industrial relations in Ireland is essentially voluntary in nature. The State has established a number of institutions to assist in the resolution of trade disputes between employers and workers, including the Employment Appeals Tribunal.

I understand that the person referred to in the question has lodged a claim with the Employment Appeals Tribunal. The tribunal is an independent quasi-judicial body and I have no function in its day-to-day operation.

Question No. 171 answered with QuestionNo. 142.

Question No. 172 answered with QuestionNo. 157.