Unions in all-out strike threat
Union chiefs were today pushing for an all-out strike on construction sites after up to 11,000 electricians downed tools in a row over pay.
The Technical Engineering and Electrical Union said the massive turnout and support received from other unions showed workers were not prepared to roll over and accept cutbacks.
High profile construction projects like Dublin Airport’s Terminal 2, the new Lansdowne Road Stadium and Corrib gas project were hit after last-ditch talks at the Labour Relations Commission collapsed at the weekend.
Mary Coughlan, Tánaiste and Enterprise Minister, urged both sides in the dispute to come together in the understanding that the economic climate had changed.
But TEEU general secretary designate Eamon Devoy said the union was applying to the Irish Congress of Trade Unions for an all-out picket at the sites.
“Our members have sent a very clear signal to the employers by their actions this morning that they will not be rolling over and meekly accepting cutbacks to bail out developers and speculators,” Mr Devoy said.
Mr Devoy said they remained available for serious negotiations and if employers wished, would be happy to engage in talks.
“If not, the pickets will remain in place and we will now be seeking to consolidate the support we are already receiving from other workers through an application for an all-out picket from ICTU today.”
Workers say they are owed as much as an 11% pay rise from three years ago which was never paid, while employers have disputed the claim and are demanding a 10% cut in wages.
The industrial action has already threatened to escalate as Ireland’s largest trade union Siptu waded in to the row to declare it would back an all-out picket.
Ms Coughlan said: “Well naturally we’re disappointed that the facilities that have been provided through the LRC haven’t worked thus far.
“As you know, those facilities are available at all times to both the employers and to the unions and we would hope that we would see a meeting of minds.
“I think it’s hugely important that we have social partnership really, really working. There’s a clear understanding that the economic climate has changed and we should see an acceptance of that on both sides.”
