Trade Union Access to Workers
Trade Union Access to Workers
Barriers faced by representatives in Ireland within a comparative European context
Ireland has comparatively low collective bargaining coverage in the European Union making the Directive on Adequate Minimum Wages of particular interest there. This report examines the views of Irish union officials on the current challenges pertaining to increased collective bargaining. The findings reveal that union officials are largely positively disposed towards the Directive and optimistic it will contribute to addressing the current challenges. However, it was felt that the impact of the Directive is dependent upon how it is transposed. The report offers recommendations for policy changes based on the findings and examples from other international contexts.
Dr Michelle O'Sullivan & Dr Caroline Murphy (July 2024): Ireland has comparatively low collective bargaining coverage in the European Union, making the EU Directive on Adequate Minimum Wages particularly significant. This report reviews the policy and practice on workplace access for trade union representatives in Ireland and contrasts it with approaches in countries like Australia, Germany, Romania, and Sweden. It also presents new findings from a comprehensive survey conducted for this report, highlighting the challenges trade union representatives face in organizing and representing workers, particularly in achieving union recognition. Union officials are optimistic about the Directive's potential to address these challenges, although its impact will depend on effective transposition. The report offers strategic recommendations to enhance union advocacy and foster a more equitable labour environment in Ireland.
