SIPTU is calling for members to cast their vote for stronger workers’ rights after almost two-hundred-and-fifty General Election candidates across Ireland signed a pledge committing to legislative change.
The pledge, organised by the cross-union Respect at Work campaign, calls for “legislation which promotes collective bargaining, protects workplace representatives and ensures the right to access a trade union at work.”
A grassroots effort by union activists during the election saw the pledge signed by six party leaders, senior figures from across the political spectrum and candidates in every one of the 43 Dáil constituencies.
“The endorsement of our General Election pledge shows a widespread demand for stronger workers’ rights,” campaign spokesperson Ethel Buckley said.
“The cost-of-living crisis has been a key feature of this campaign and there is a growing political consensus that collective bargaining and unionised jobs are the solution.
“The next Government must turn the page on an era when Ireland was a Wild West for workers’ rights,” Buckley added, “and legislate for meaningful change to bring us into line with the rest of Europe.”
SIPTU is encouraging members in every constituency to choose candidates who are committed to the pledge and to delivering stronger workers’ rights.
The union has said it will be reminding all parties after the election of the widespread support for change and demanding that new legislation be included in the next Programme for Government and the forthcoming National Action Plan to Promote Collective Bargaining.
Click here to find out which candidates in your constituency signed the pledge.