SIPTU and CRH sign agreement on establishing works councils across Europe

SIPTU representatives have signed an agreement with the management of international building materials group, CRH, which will see the establishment of works councils representing all its employees in its operations across Europe. SIPTU Sector Organiser, John Regan, said: “This extensive agreement, which was signed yesterday (Tuesday, 12th October) at a meeting in Amsterdam, is one of the most significant ever concluded in the buildings materials industry in Europe. It ensures that trade union representatives are now part of the dialogue in relation to the operation and future direction of one of the biggest companies in the world.  “This agreement gives CRH workers real rights in relation to information about their company and ensures consultation with them regarding its future.”  He added: “The negotiations that brought about this agreement have continued during the last two years under Covid-19 restrictions. It is a testament to the resolve and good will of both sides that it was successfully concluded under such circumstances.” SIPTU European Works Councils co-ordinator, Denis Sheridan, said: “This agreement is unique in terms of its scope in relation to a multi-national company headquartered in Ireland. This is because the legislation regarding governance of European Works Councils in Ireland is very weak and allows corporations to share only the minimal amount of information and carry out little consultation with their workers.”