asked the Minister for Labour whether any commitments were given by him or by anyone acting of his behalf to the ICTU or any of its constituent members in the course of the discussions that preceded The Programme for National Recovery, that there would be no fundamental alteration in the 1906 Trade Disputes Act.
Written Answers. - Trade Disputes Act.
22.
The improvement of industrial relations was raised in the course of the discussions on the Programme for National Recovery. Because of the complex and sensitive nature of industrial relations reform it was agreed that this matter should be dealt with in direct discussions between my Department, the FUE and the ICTU, and an appropriate paragraph covering this arrangement was included in the programme. No commitments were given to either side on any issue. The relevant paragraph of the programme states:
The Minister for Labour will hold discussions with the Social Partners about changes in industrial relations which would provide a better framework for collective bargaining and dispute settlement and help to create conditions for employment-generating investment. It will be the aim of the parties to the Programme to conclude these discussions as soon as possible.
I have met both the FUE and the ICTU and outlined what seems to me to be the most practical approach to the whole area of industrial relations and trade dispute law reform, including the Trade Disputes Act, 1906.
Discussions are continuing at official level. I have asked that these discussions be completed by the end of April. At that stage, in the light of the views expressed, I will prepare a package of proposals for Government approval and I would hope to introduce legislation in the autumn.