Unions mount campaign to defend rights of freelancers
23/11/2005 - 08:26:53A number of trade unions have launched a campaign to defend their right to represent freelance actors, musicians, film crews and journalists.
The unions have accused the Competition Authority of attempting to deprive these workers of their current representation by regarding them as "private commercial companies"
SIPTU, which is involved in the campaign, claims the authority has warned the trade union movement that they could be charged with a criminal offence if they continue to represent such individuals.
Spokesperson Patricia King said the competition body was targeting a vulnerable group of workers who already have to suffer with low wages and poor terms and conditions.
