Ireland: Unions set out “collective bargaining agenda”

Irish unions urge government to strengthen sectoral collective bargaining, workplace access, and legal protections, aiming to meet EU minimum wage obligations and rebalance employer-union rights.

The key points: The Irish Congress of Trade Unions has submitted recommendations to the government, calling for stronger sectoral collective bargaining, unrestricted union access to workplaces, and legislative protections for union activity. These moves are aimed at meeting obligations under the Adequate Minimum Wages Directive.

Why this matters: If adopted, these proposals could shift the balance of power in workplaces and increase union influence, particularly in sectors with low union density. They would also bring Ireland closer in line with EU standards on collective bargaining and worker representation.

What might happen next: The government will consider the unions’ recommendations as part of its consultation process. Legislative proposals to strengthen collective bargaining and workplace access rights may follow.

The report in IRN.ie