Ireland: Unions want workplace access

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) released a report advocating for union access to non-union workplaces. The move is linked to the EU’s Adequate Minimum Wage Directive, aimed at improving collective bargaining coverage, which currently stands at 20% in Ireland’s private sector.

Why it matters: Unions argue that access is essential for organizing, including both physical and digital means. However, constitutional issues regarding property rights could pose significant challenges.

The big picture: Article 4 of the AMWD requires member State governments to put action plans in place to promote collective bargaining where collective bargaining coverage falls below 80% of the workforce. It is important to remember that collective bargaining coverage does not equal trade union membership

What’s next: With the EU’s Adequate Minimum Wage Directive November deadline approaching, the debate on workplace access and its implications for employers will intensify.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

We have posted a copy of the above report on our website. 

See this further comment from Matheson LLP on the decision by the Verizon EWC to appeal recent Labour Court decisions to the High Court.