Labour Court Recommendations

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 17 February 2015

Tuesday, 17 February 2015

Questions (249)

Peadar Tóibín

Question:

249. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if his attention has been drawn to a decision by the principal contractor of a publicly funded college (details supplied) in County Dublin not to uphold a recent recommendation by the Labour Court; the confidence workers can have in the State’s industrial relations mechanism if a contractor, awarded multiple public works contracts, can choose to ignore Labour Court recommendations, with no admonishment by the State agency or Department to whom it is contracted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6954/15]

Written answers

Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation

I understand that a number of separate, but connected, issues are involved in the dispute at the school building site near Lucan, Co. Dublin, including allegations regarding non-compliance with statutory rates of pay, status of employees and the issue of subcontracting.

The dispute was the subject of a recent Labour Court hearing and subsequent Recommendation. I understand that the parties involved are actively considering the Recommendation of the Court.

I would encourage all parties to give positive consideration to the Labour Court's proposals. The experience and expertise of the Court offers the best avenue for resolving the issues in dispute.

However, Ireland's system of industrial relations is voluntary in nature and responsibility for the resolution of industrial relations issues lies ultimately with employers and workers and their respective representatives as appropriate.