Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 6 Feb 2001

Vol. 529 No. 4

Written Answers. - Programme for Prosperity and Fairness.

John Bruton

Ceist:

84 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views on whether the industrial peace and stabilisation clause of the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness has been respected by all the unions which are parties to the agreement; and her further views on whether the clause in regard to strikes and industrial action has also been respected. [29562/00]

Minister of State at the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment (Mr. T. Kitt)

There has been a high level of adherence to the industrial peace and stabilisation clause of the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness. Notwithstanding this there have been cases in both the public and private sectors where industrial action has occurred which is in breach of the PPF.

In the talks which concluded in December on an adjustment to the terms PPF I was pleased to note that both ICTU and IBEC undertook to actively pursue adherence by their respective members to the key terms of the pay agreement.

Adherence has been underpinned by a National Implementation Body representing Government, IBEC, CIF and ICTU which will meet quarterly to ensure delivery of the stability and peace provisions of PPF. Where particular difficulties arise or are anticipated, this group can be convened at short notice. The difficulties which arose in relation to the PPF should serve to underline the benefits of our social partnership model. There is evidence to indicate that our growth rates are slowing down. We need to continue to work in harmony to build on the success to date and to protect what we have already achieved.