Tánaiste Launches 2002 Annual Report of the Labour Relations Commission

Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Mary Harney today (Tuesday 17^th June 2003) launched the Annual Report of the Labour Relations Commission (LRC) for 2002.

Speaking at the launch the Tánaiste highlighted the important contribution the LRC has made to the strong industrial relations climate that now exist in this country.

The Tánaiste said "one of the key elements of Ireland's economic success has been a stable industrials relations environment and the availability of a highly professional and effective dispute resolution machinery when needed".

"Ensuring a good industrial relations environment is an ongoing challenge requiring both employers and workers to communicate and work together at workplace level. Those involved in industrial relations must endeavor to increase the number of disputes resolved at local level and to change the culture of third-party dependency. Working in partnership has and will continue to serve us well", she added.

The Tánaiste noted the success of the Conciliation Service in resolving over 80% of disputes referred to it. She also noted that 2002 was the year in which the lowest number of days were lost in industrial disputes since 1970. The Tánaiste said "these statistics are very welcome. However prevention must be our key focus"

The Tánaiste thanked Chief Executive Kieran Mulvey and his staff and expressed her gratitude for the valuable contribution made by the outgoing Chairman Caitriona Murphy and members and wished new Chairman Maurice Cashell and his Board success in their important work of developing the role of the LRC.

ENDS