Workers at a West Donegal factory have voted overwhelmingly to take strike action.
The dispute concerns a refusal by management to recognise their right to SIPTU union representation for collective bargaining purposes at the Rapid Action Packaging (RAP) plant in Gweedore.
In a ballot of around SIPTU 100 members at the plant, a total of 97% voted for strike action this morning.
The company makes wrapping for sandwiches and other items which are exported to a number of major suppliers.
SIPTU Organiser, Declan Ferry, said: “In a ballot of our members in the RAP plant which was counted this morning, 97% voted for strike action. Our approximately 100 members have been left with no option but to vote for industrial action in relation to this dispute.
“This is because management has refused to respect a Labour Court recommendation even though the company handbook states that it will always adhere with decisions of the State’s industrial relations mechanisms.
He added that SIPTU representatives remain available to enter discussions at any time with management to find a resolution to this dispute.
However, he added that workers’ rights to engage in collective bargaining on issues of joint concern is a fundamental principle that the company must accept.
He added “It is a crucial right for workers which our members refuse to have denied to them.
“It is worth reminding this company that it is in receipt of public funds through Údarás na Gaeltachta.
“The public, and in particular the people of Donegal are entitled, therefore, to demand that this company recognises workers’ fundamental rights and the recommendations of the State’s industrial relations mechanisms.”
Local county councillor and trade union activist Micheal Mac Giolla Easbuig said the company has “shown contempt” for their workers.
He said it is regrettable that the RAP workforce finds itself in a situation where they are forced to take strike action in order to secure their justified demands.
“It should not be overlooked that the Labour Court has already ruled in favour of the workers and it is the company’s stubborn refusal to accept the court recommendation that has led to this situation.
“This decision to support strike action was not taken lightly. However, the workers and SIPTU officials are to be commended for demonstrating this degree of commitment to securing their basic entitlements. I would therefore urge all fair-minded people in the Gaeltacht, including members of my own union the IWU, to wholeheartedly support these workers in this struggle.”
He added “I would not only call upon Rapid Action Packaging to engage immediately and constructively with its workforce but would also insist that if this company fails to do so, Údarás na Gaeltachta must intervene to ensure an acceptable level of treatment for people at work.”
