Vol. 400 No. 6
17 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Labour if he has had, or if he plans to have, any talks with the trade union movement regarding the possible implications for industrial relations of proposals by the Government to sell off certain State companies in whole or in part; the steps, if any, which are planned to ensure the preservation of worker representation on the boards of any company proposed to be sold; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
The approach of the Government to privatisation is based on what is best in the public interest and in the best interest of the company and its employees. The position of any company would be determined on the merits of all the variables involved. An important issue in any case will be to ensure that companies can grow and expand and create more employment.
The issues arising in any particular case would be a matter for consideration by the individual Minister and Department concerned. This is, of course, a hypothetical situation at the moment, as only one flotation has been decided on. I would, however, expect employees to be kept fully informed of developments and to be consulted on issues which affect them.
