back to news listing

Nash welcomes resumption of Tesco talks

25 May 2016

Statement by Ged Nash TD
Spokesperson on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform

I welcome the fact that the planned strike action at Tesco stores tomorrow has been deferred as both parties involved in the dispute have agreed to return to the Workplace Relations Commission for further talks.

Tesco need to listen to the legitimate and understandable concerns of their hardworking and loyal staff over proposed unilateral changes to employment contracts, which would see pay and conditions reduced. Furthermore, the failure of Tesco to implement the Labour Court recommendation of a 2% pay rise, is disrespectful to staff.

Labour in Government strengthened protections for workers and significantly improved our industrial relations framework. I would implore both sides in this dispute to use the framework at their disposal to negotiate an amicable agreement which does not see working conditions eroded.