Unite says it is determined to ensure workers’ pay and conditions do not come under attack

Action at Dundalk facility set to start on 10 March

22 February: Unite, which represents over 200 workers at the Cargotec (formerly Moffett Engineering) facility in Dundalk, today (Tuesday) announced that a ballot of members had returned an overwhelming 93 per cent vote in favour of industrial action, starting with a one-day stoppage on 10 March. 

The dispute follows the company’s refusal to engage meaningfully at the Workplace Relations Commission and the Labour Court regarding their proposal to transfer workers under what Unite describes as a ‘fake TUPE’, meaning established jobs, pay and conditions could come under future attack.

Cargotec is a successful multinational, generating over €4 billion in revenue during 2022.

Commenting, Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said:

“Cargotec’s success is due to the commitment and expertise of its workforce in Dundalk and elsewhere.  It has a responsibility to treat this workforce with dignity and respect.

“However, Unite members have well-founded concerns that the company is engaging in a ‘fake TUPE’ process.  This union will not accept any attempt to undermine our members’ terms and conditions now or in the future.  The Cargotec workers have Unite’s full and unstinting support in this battle to defend their jobs.”

Unite regional officer Brian Hewitt added: “Cargotec has shown disregard for the state’s industrial relations procedures, refusing to engage in a meaningful way at the Workplace Relations Commission and rejecting an invitation to attend the Labour Court.

“But they should pay heed to the overwhelming 93 per cent vote in favour of industrial action.  This reflects our members’ determination to protect their terms and conditions going forward.  Unless the company engages collectively and meaningfully with our members, strike action will commence with a one-day stoppage on 10 March”, Mr Hewitt concluded.