Critical for business to rail against uncertainty
Dear member,
With the unexpected and thoroughly unwelcome political uncertainty over the last week, I have gone on the record to say that there is no rationale for Ireland to go to the polls given this profound and historical juncture. In addition to Brexit, the domestic investment milestones of the Ten Year Capital Plan and National Planning Framework which government have promised to deliver before year end must not be hampered. We are all too aware of the imperfections brought about by the minority government, however our economy finds itself in a strong position which gives us lots of options for the future so it is critical as business leaders we rail against this uncertainty.
Simultaneously, we must also be vocal on anti-business legislation gaining traction in Dáil Eireann. Of major concern currently to business are Private Members’ Bills proposing to abolish mandatory retirement ages and introducing rigid rules on banded hours and the overregulation of independent contractors. The proposals make minimal effort to address the needs of business and, as such, could significantly increase the regulatory burden, add costs and ultimately put jobs at risk. A balanced approach to employment regulation is key to Ireland’s attractiveness as a place to do business, and Ibec is actively working across all parties to ensure these proposals don’t progress in their current form.
A key objective of trade unions is a national referendum on collective bargaining designed to force employers to recognise trade unions. Such a move would be a blow to Ireland’s ability to foster indigenous business and attract foreign direct investment. Our industrial relations model is entirely consistent with international law and convention, and is one which has delivered for the economy in the form of growth, investment and jobs. Companies that choose to engage directly with their workforce have made a hugely positive contribution to the Irish economy, running successful, dynamic businesses with a progressive approach to employee engagement.
At Ibec we are redoubling our work to explain and communicate the value of Ireland’s current voluntarist approach to industrial relations for jobs and wider prosperity and we would greatly value your support to reinforce this message when it comes to your own interactions and communications.
As always, please get in touch directly if you have any comments or queries and I will keep you posted on this and other vital developments.
Regards
Danny McCoy
CEO
Monday, 27 November 2017