Sinéad Gibney (Dublin Rathdown, Social Democrats)
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50. To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment whether ending the voluntary system of industrial relations was considered for inclusion in the Action Plan on Collective Bargaining; the reasons for not including it as a measure or goal of the plan, given that it is frequently cited as a key barrier to greater collective bargaining coverage and better workplace relations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [62286/25]

Alan Dillon (Mayo, Fine Gael)
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It has been the consistent policy of successive Irish governments to promote collective bargaining through the development of an institutional framework supportive of a voluntary system of industrial relations, premised upon freedom of contract and freedom of association.

The collective bargaining system is underpinned by a range of statutory provisions designed to facilitate and assist the voluntary bargaining process, including the provision of the independent services of the Workplace Relations Commission and of the Labour Court.

Ireland’s Action Plan to Promote Collective Bargaining, is an initiative that reflects the Government’s commitment to strengthening the industrial relations framework and enhancing the quality of working life across the country.

The Action Plan has been developed by the Department in close consultation with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) and Ibec, the plan also reflects Ireland’s commitment to fostering fair, inclusive, and productive workplaces.

Irelands Action plan promotes collective bargaining and sets out 22 targeted actions across five key pillars, this includes,

Empowering and Encouraging participation via capacity-building programmes and recognition initiatives.

Protecting the rights of workers and trade union representatives through legal reviews and will empower, promote, protect and support the industrial relations framework in Ireland for employers and workers alike.

Ireland’s success has long been built on collaboration between government, employers and workers.