asked the Minister for Labour if it is proposed to introduce legislation to govern the issuing of negotiating licences for newly formed trade unions; and if any request for such legislation has been received from the Irish Congress of Trade Unions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Trade Union Negotiation Licences.
78.
I am making proposals to the Government for the introduction of amending legislation governing the grant of negotiation licences to newly formed trade unions. The Irish Congress of Trade Unions have informed me that they are in favour of the introduction of such legislation.
They did not request the Minister to introduce legislation, did they? That is the question asked.
No. They are in favour of it. They made a statement to that effect.
But they did not ask the Minister?
No.
That is fair enough. There is a distinction.
79.
asked the Minister for Labour how many trade unions have been licensed each year for the past five years; if they are obliged to submit an annual report; and, if so, if all of them have done so.
I assume that the Deputy wishes to have information as to the number of trade unions which have been granted negotiation licences over the past five years under the Trade Union Act, 1941. The information is as follows: 1966 none; 1967 two; 1968 none; 1969 three; 1970 three; 1971 (to date) one.
Trade unions holding negotiation licences are not obliged to submit an annual report to me. They are obliged, however, to send me a statement every three years showing their membership numbers.
Every year to the Depart-of Industry and Commerce, their books and their numbers.
That is right.