asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether, in view of the desire of the vast majority of Irish workers for undisturbed peaceful ways of earning their living in continuous employment, he will introduce proposals for legislation (1) to prohibit lightning strikes, and (2) to prohibit other strikes or lockouts except where a majority of the workers concerned vote in favour of such action by secret ballot.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Strike Legislation.
Mr. Byrne
I am most anxious to promote conditions which will avoid industrial strife and the consequent dislocation of business. Lightning and unofficial strikes are, therefore, to be deplored as being injurious to the national well-being and to the workers concerned. I feel, however, that the solution of the problem does not lie in the introduction of legislation of the kind suggested by the Deputy but in the development of a high sense of responsibility by workers towards the community, and the observance by the workers of the rules and discipline of their trade union regulations. I trust that the trade union movement will direct its efforts towards the speedy elimination of such ill-considered action by their members and that the latter will recognise the grave injury that such hasty action causes to the community and to the trade union movement.
Mr. Byrne
Is the Minister aware that trade union leaders are not responsible for the trouble to which I refer? He must be aware that there is a group of new young agitators trying to upset the legitimate trade unions by their activities. It is to curb that kind of action, so that the legitimate trade unions can carry on, that I asked the Minister to do something in the matter before it is too late.
Trade union leaders are responsible for the actions of their members and responsible for seeing that the members observe the rules of their trade unions and observe the law.
Mr. Byrne
Are those who break the law and the rules of the trade unions to be allowed to go scot free to create disaffection in the city?
That is a matter for the trade unions.