Company must come to table and negotiate collectively

March 10th: Following a 93% vote for industrial action, Unite members working for cargo handling manufacturer Cargotec in Dundalk took to the picket line today in a move which saw production at the facility closed down.  The dispute surrounds what Unite has termed a ‘bogus TUPE’ process which members fear could impact their terms and conditions going forward.  Unite is calling on the company to come to the table and negotiate collectively with the workers affected.

Commenting, Unite Regional Coordinating Officer Tom Fitzgerald said:

“The overwhelming vote to take industrial action was reflected in the strength of today’s picket line which closed down production at Cargotec’s Dundalk facility.  Our members have contributed to the success of this highly profitable company, and it’s now up to the company to treat their workers with respect, come to the table, and negotiate collectively with our members through their union, Unite, regarding their proposals which we believe amount to a ‘bogus TUPE’ and could impact on terms and conditions going forward”.

Unite Regional Officer Brian Hewitt added:

“Today’s action should have left the company in no doubt regarding our members’ determination to be treated with respect.  The company needs to rethink, come to the table and talk to workers collectively regarding their proposals.  Otherwise, they face the prospect of another strike on March 16^th, Mr Hewitt warned.