Unite questions the timing of this notice

July 1st: Commenting on the notice given to Irish Archaeology Consultancy staff working on the Macroom Bypass that their role on the scheme is coming to an end, trade union Unite, which represents commercial archaeologists, today stated its belief that the timing of such notice could be seen as “union-busting tactics “. The fact that industrial action was voted on with no definite knowledge of when the scheme will end, and the fact that archaeological works will continue after IAC have left, has led Unite to state that the timing “stretches the bounds of credulity “.

The industrial action being taken by Unite members working for IAC comes on foot of the company’s refusal to engage with their workers, either through the union or through the WRC.

Commenting, Unite Regional Coordinating Officer Richie Browne said:

“Coming as it does in advance of our member’s industrial action on July 4th, the decision to give notice to IAC staff can at best be regarded as an extreme co-incidence, and at worst as union-busting tactics.

“Should this be the case,  such tactics will not succeed. Unite represents archaeologists working on a number of IAC projects, and Unite will take all action necessary to secure decent treatment for our members. IAC continue to win tenders and advertise for positions, so any effort to isolate union members seeking further work will be immediately obvious.

“The resolution of this dispute is in IAC’S hands, with the easiest route to resolution being through direct engagement with the union of their employees’ choice” Richie Browne concluded.