Vol. 484 No. 3
74 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will ensure that the code of conduct on human rights agreed in September 1996 between the European Apparel and Textile Organisation and the European Trade Union Confederation of Textiles, Clothing and Labour is implemented in Ireland particularly in relation to non-EU imports into Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22038/97]
The code of conduct referred to by the Deputy was agreed between the European Apparel and Textile Organisation and the European Trade Union Federation of Textiles, Clothing and Leather. Accordingly, the Government has no role in its implementation in this country. In agreeing to the code, the parties undertook to work towards a European textile and clothing industry that is productive, internationally competitive and based on the respect of both workers and employers. The code of conduct calls upon the companies and workers of the European Textile and Clothing Industry to comply with the following ILO Conventions:—
Convention Nos. 29 and 105 on forced labour
Convention Nos. 87 and 98 on freedom of association and the right to negotiate
Convention No. 138 on minimum age
Convention No. 111 on non-discrimination in employment.
Of these, Ireland has ratified Conventions 29, 105, 87, 98 and 138. Convention 111 on non-discrimination in employment has not yet been ratified by Ireland. However, ratification of this Convention is under consideration and will be actively pursued in the context of the progress of the Employment Equality Bill which was published last week by my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
