The world is an increasing erratic place, thanks largely to the US Administration of President Donald Trump. Anything that is said about him will probably be out of date by the time you read this, but if you feel like his administration resembles a low budget gameshow or the most far out reality television offering yet, you are not alone.
However, we know that his actions have real and very serious ramifications. In these uncertain times, SIPTU is committed to working constructively with manufacturing companies in the best interests of the tens of thousands of high standard jobs they provide in Ireland.
Your Union has called on the Government to move quickly to establish a taskforce involving trade unions, employers and State agencies to produce strategies to protect production in all areas impacted by the US tariffs and threat of a larger trade war.
In companies with which SIPTU has collective agreements we will seek to work with employers to overcome the impact of any US measures.
Unfortunately, not all companies in these sectors allow workers to exercise their right to collectively bargain. In these circumstances where a company does not recognise the Union, we will seek to protect members’ interests as individuals and continue to push for management to understand the benefits of collective bargaining. The securing of collective agreements is a positive in such situations as they provide reassurance and crucially a united voice for the workforce in any negotiated change.
We understand that this is a time of great unease for you and your families. The Union is preparing for all eventualities and together we will secure the best outcomes for members whatever problems the erratic international situation throws up. We should also remember that a strong Union is the best protection any worker can have.
In these uncertain times we have a clear message: Protect Jobs, Have a Voice, Grow the Union.