Works to be halted on July 4th following leading archaeological consultancy’s refusal to talk to Unite
Macroom stoppage first in planned nationwide series of actions
June 27th: Members of Unite’s archaeological branch working for the Irish Archaeological Consultancy on the Macroom bypass will be taking strike action on Wednesday July 4th. The action follows the decision by Unite members working for IAC to take industrial action on foot of the company’s persistent refusal to engage with Unite regarding a pay claim, either directly or in the Workplace Relations Commission.
IAC has been contracted to carry out archaeological works on the N22 Macroom bypass. Eight Unite archaeological branch members employed by IAC will be “downing trowels” at Bealick and Sliabh Riagh, as well as a small logistical facility near Cappagh West, on July 4th. In addition, other Unite members working on the project will not be passing the picket.
The stoppage in Macroom will be the first in a planned nationwide series of strikes by IAC workers seeking decent treatment.
Commenting, Unite Regional Coordinating Officer Richie Browne said:
“Despite the fact that IAC is in receipt of significant public contracts, it has not only refused to negotiate with Unite directly but has also refused to engage through the state’s industrial relations mechanism – the WRC.
“IAC’s revenues are growing at approximately 20% per annum, yet some of the workers who have contributed to their outstanding success make only slightly above the Living Wage. Given the company’s persistent refusal to engage either directly with Unite or through the WRC, our members have been left with no alternative but to take industrial action.
“Unite remains available for meaningful discussions to resolve this dispute”, Richie Browne concluded.
Unite the Union, Ireland Region 