Motion no: 31
Congress notes the risk, in a time of great economic and political uncertainty for the voice of workers, expressed through their trade unions, to become marginalised. This makes it essential that in any discussion of future economic development and trade
“deals” the case for workers’ rights within an economy that is built on tax justice, whether at a local, national or international level is heard and advanced.
Congress reiterates its view that in order to deliver justice in terms of fighting economic inequality a radical reform of our trade union laws North and South, that would empower trade union activity, is essential. Such reform, underpinned by: trade union recognition; sectoral collective bargaining and a real living wage would enhance opposition to those
who seek to privatise our public services and re-model the economy for the benefit of shareholders not workers. New trade union laws, by offering full employment rights from
day one of employment, would also support workers’ freedom of movement by undermining any “divide and rule” strategy – sometimes rooted in racism and xenophobia – that attacks migrant workers and deflects from the employers’ responsibility for low pay and poor conditions.
NIPSA calls on the ICTU to ensure that, at this time of economic and political uncertainty, irrespective of the shape of future relationships with the European Union, workers’ rights are protected and advanced through full trade union engagement with employers and within the wider political system.
