Deputy Pearse Doherty has this evening (Friday) called on management at the RAP packaging plant in Gaoth Dobhair and union officials representing workers to agree to come together and to enter into talks aimed at resolving the ongoing industrial dispute between the sides.
Almost 100 workers at the factory voted to take strike action when they were balloted this morning.
Deputy Doherty said “The RAP packaging factory based here in the Gaoth Dobhair Industrial Estate is a major employer in this region and the fact that its operations continue to go from strength to strength illustrates the skills and dedication of the local workforce here in west Donegal.
“It’s unfortunate therefore that this dispute has gotten to this stage with workers represented by SIPTU today having taken the decision to vote overwhelming in favour of taking strike action over management’s refusal to recognize their right as workers to union representations for collective bargaining purposes.
“This decision by management is regrettable particularly as it goes against an earlier Labour Court recommendation; this is despite the fact that the company’s own handbook states that the firm will adhere to decisions made by the State’s industrial relations mechanism.”
The Sinn Fein politician added that while this situation is of course concerning, he understands SIPTU representatives have expressed a willingness to enter into discussions with management in order to arrive at an acceptable resolution.
“I would therefore like to take this opportunity to encourage company management and Union officials representing these workers to come to the negotiating table in the hope that such a solution can be arrived at.
“Also, given the fact that state supports have been made available to the company through Údarás na Gaeltachta, it is vital that the agency uses whatever influence it may yield to encourage both sides to enter into talks so that a way forward can be found.”
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