Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 6 February 2007
378 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will ensure that the Bank of Ireland respects all AMICU’s members in their dispute on the pensions issue and keep to the spirit of the Strategic Transformation Programme Agreement in order that any individual staff members recruited since 1 October 2006 should be given the opportunity to join the established scheme. [3511/07]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, Ireland's system of industrial relations is, essentially, voluntary in nature and responsibility for the resolution of industrial disputes is a matter for the parties involved. Dispute resolution machinery is provided to help and support parties in their efforts to resolve their differences, rather than imposing a solution on the parties to an industrial dispute.
I understand that the Labour Court has considered the dispute referred to by the Deputy and has recommended that the parties should seek to reconcile their differences through an intense process of engagement. In this regard, I further understand that the parties have agreed to attend talks to which they have been invited by the Labour Relations Commission. I would encourage all the parties to engage fully in this process and seek to resolve their differences.
379 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if action will be taken to assist a person (details supplied) with their case. [3500/07]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll proper procedures were adhered to in this case and all necessary action was taken. The person concerned was employed on a short term contract as a Temporary Service Attendant. His contract was due to expire on 12th May 2006. His contract was extended until 28th July 2006 to allow for a number of appeals he made in writing and orally. The Secretary General of the Department, having fully considered the matter, and following legal advice from the Office of the Attorney General, confirmed to the person concerned in writing that his contract would expire on 28th July 2006.
