Johnny Guirke (Meath West, Sinn Fein)

I thank People Before Profit for bringing forward this Bill. I wish to reaffirm our commitment to the rights of workers across Ireland and outline our support for any meaningful reforms that will strengthen a worker’s ability to be heard, respected and fairly represented in the workplace. Every worker deserves dignity, fairness, respect and the right to collective bargaining. These are fundamental principles that are essential for building a just and equitable workplace.

Sinn Féin supports the Trade Union Recognition Bill, and it is something we have campaigned for. This is crucial legislation that aims to establish a clear, accessible and enforceable legal framework for trade union recognition. This legislation is not just about legal formalities; it is about empowering workers, ensuring that their voices are heard and safeguarding their rights in an increasingly complex employment landscape. Recognition is a fundamental step towards fairer industrial relations, allowing workers to negotiate for better wages, improved conditions,and secure employment rights. Such measures are necessary to uphold the rule of law, prevent abuse and ensure that employers cannot bypass or undermine workers’ rights by means of delaying tactics or intimidation. Moreover, the legislation would empower the Labour Court to investigate disputes relating to recognition thoroughly. After an investigation, the court would issue written recommendations, including the reasons for its decision. If the court finds that a trade union is genuinely representative of at least 20% of the workforce, it will recommend that it be recognised, either through recognition orders or other appropriate redress. Transparency is key. All decisions made by the Labour Court would be published and made available for inspection, with protections for the contents under absolute privilege. This openness would create trust and accountability and ensure fair treatment.

Legislation alone cannot solve all issues. We recognise that the current voluntary system of trade union recognition often fails many workers, especially those in sectors such as retail and hospitality. Unfortunately, recent developments have shown a worrying retreat by the Government from commitments made during election campaigns. Only six months after the general election, it has been broken promise after broken promise. Instead of prioritising workers’ rights, the Government cites economic uncertainty as an excuse to delay or weaken reforms, but economic challenges must not be used as an excuse to undermine fundamental rights. Protecting workers’ rights is an investment in our society. It is an investment in fairer, more productive workplaces that benefit everyone.

Sinn Féin is committed to continuing the fight for legislative reforms that make trade union recognition a legal right, not a matter of voluntary agreement or employer discretion. We will push for laws that protect workers from anti-union practices, bullying, and harassment. Genuine collective bargaining, where workers and employers negotiate on an equal footing, is vital for fair wages, safe working conditions and job security.

Sinn Féin remains unwavering in its belief that workers must be empowered, protected, and respected. We will continue to champion reforms that enshrine trade union recognition as a legal right, eliminate exploitative practices and promote genuine collective bargaining. Only when workers are recognised and their voices heard can we build workplaces of equality, dignity, respect and fairness for all.

See this speech in context