LCR22400

1. Connect Trade Union seeking Union recognition in order to represent members individually & collectively

BACKGROUND:

2. This dispute could not be resolved at local level and was referred to the Labour Court on 25 August 2020 in accordance with Section 20 (1) of the Industrial Relations Act, 1969. A Labour Court hearing took place on 15 April 2021 in a virtual Court room.



RECOMMENDATION :

This matter comes before the Court as a referral by Connect Trade Union under Section 20(1) of the Industrial Relations Act, 1969. The Employer advised the Court that it would not be in attendance at the hearing.

The Union submitted that it represents members in the employment and contend that the method of employer/employee engagement currently in place in the company is inappropriate to deal with the issues in dispute. The Union also submitted that the Company’s Grievance and Disciplinary policies do not meet the minimum requirements set out in S.I.No.46/2000 Code of Practice on Grievance and Disciplinary Procedures.

The Court, on the uncontested facts of the submission as presented by the Unions, recommends that the company should amend its procedures to comply with the Code of Practice and recognise the Union as the representative of those employees who are in membership of Connect Trade Union and should engage with them in dealing with employment related matters arising within the employment affecting those members.

The Court so Recommends.

	Signed on behalf of the Labour Court
	Louise O'Donnell
DC	______________________
27 April 2021	Deputy Chairman