Richard Bruton
Ceist:27 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Taoiseach whether he addressed the ICTU conference on the issue of trade union recognition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13720/97]
Written Answers. - ICTU Conference.
Dick Spring
Ceist:28 Mr. Spring asked the Taoiseach the nature and extent of the discussions he had with the leadership of ICTU when he met them recently. [13820/97]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 27 and 28 together.
I had the honour on Tuesday last of travelling to Belfast to address the ICTU biennial conference. It gave me the opportunity to make clear my Government's commitment to implementing in full the terms of Partnership 2000; indeed, this is stated in our Action Programme for the Millennium.
My speech to the conference covered a wide range of issues, including that of union recognition. I referred to the fact that a working group is being established on which representatives of ICTU, IBEC and Departments are included, together with the industrial development agencies. This is in accordance with the terms of Partnership 2000. The issue is a complex one which will require detailed study of both international practice and experience. An important task for the group will be to explore different approaches to recognition and what their implications might be in the Irish context.
The trade union movement has played an important role in the success of the economy. Social partnership has provided a sound basis for the management of change which is at the heart of this success. It is right, therefore, to address their concerns that the failure on the part of some firms to negotiate with unions representing a large proportion of their staff is acting to the disadvantage of these employees. This can also undermine the competitive position of other firms, often the majority, in the same sector which are providing acceptable pay and conditions. We have a long history of arrangements to protect the rights of individual workers. It is right that we address the issue of collective rights in the same balanced way.
I am fully aware of the concerns as regards competitiveness with regard to overseas investment which attach to this issue. However, the working group has been set up under the terms of Partnership 2000 and given its context within the partnership, I am confident of a constructive approach being adopted by all those involved and that the issue can be moved forward on a consensual basis. I intend to stay in close contact with the group's ongoing work through participation of my Department.