Opposition attacks govt inaction over Irish Ferries
Opposition TDs have attacked the Government over its approach to the deteriorating industrial relations situation at Irish Ferries.
During a special Dáil debate last night, politicians from both sides of the House roundly condemned the company's attempt to replace its existing workers with cheaper labourers from Latvia.
Irish Ferries claims the move is necessary to cut costs in the face of increased competition, but the trade union movement says it is part of a "race to the bottom" in the jobs market.
The Irish Congress of Trade Unions is refusing to enter talks on a new social partnership deal until it receives assurances from employers and the Government that such actions will not be accepted.
Speaking during last night's Dáil debate, Labour TD Brendan Howlin demanded that the Government prevent Irish Ferries from removing the Irish flag from their vessels and re-registering them in Cyprus.
Sinn Féin's Arthur Morgan, meanwhile, said the Government's claim that it was powerless to do anything about the situation was ridiculous.
Mr Morgan said Bertie Ahern was the Taoiseach of the country and "should not be sitting back and allowing Irish Ferries to do as it pleases".
Enterprise Minister Micheál Martin, however, insisted Mr Ahern was committed to protecting workers' rights and ensuring that companies comply with Irish labour laws.
