Trade union Unite, which represents construction workers throughout Ireland, today (Monday) welcomed the decision by Jones Engineering to drop its High Court case against the union and three shop stewards. Jones has also been ordered to pay Unite’s costs.

Jones Engineering’s unprecedented decision to target union shop stewards arose from a one-day stoppage in March 2023 in pursuit of Unite’s claim against members of the Mechanical Engineering & Building Services Contractors’ Association (MEBSCA) for restoration of the first hour of travel time. Payment of the first hour of ‘travel time’ was originally cut as a so-called ‘temporary measure’ following the 2008 financial crash.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “We’re delighted that Jones Engineering has finally dropped a case which should never have been taken. It is totally unacceptable for employers to use extreme legal measures against workers exercising their democratic right to strike.

“Our message is clear. Unite will always do whatever it takes to defend our members and reps against attack by union-busting bosses – whether on the picket line or in the courts.”

Following Jones Engineering’s decision to target shop stewards, Unite and the global trade union federation Building and Woodworkers International (BWI) filed a complaint with the OECD against Jones Engineering and its US-based owner Cathexis. A decision is expected shortly regarding the complaint, which argues that Jones Engineering decision to target union shop stewards is in breach of the OECD’s Guidelines for Multinational Enterprises on Responsible Business Conduct.

Unite’s Irish Secretary Susan Fitzgerald said: “In April I wrote to Jones Engineering CEO Stephen McCabe outlining the steps they need to take to resolve our ongoing dispute. Unfortunately, the company are unwilling to engage with Unite on the steps outlined. While the decision to drop their High Court case is welcome, the company still has to demonstrate that they respect our members’ right to be effectively represented by the union of their choice, Unite.”