Address by Mr Tony Killeen, T.D., Minister for Labour Affairs endorsing the agreement by the Health and Safety Authority of ILO Guidelines in Occupational Safety and Health Management Systems

On Tuesday 30 November 2004

Mr. Chairman, Mr. Takala, guests,

I am pleased to be here today to witness the signing of this declaration by the Health and Safety Authority and the International Labour Organisation.

This event marks the beginning of what I hope will be a mutually beneficial relationship between the two organisations going forward.

The world of work is rapidly changing; so too is the area of occupational safety, health and welfare. In this dynamic environment, knowledge and expertise are essential if we are to meet the challenges before us.

Both the Health and Safety Authority and the International Labour Organisation have a wealth of knowledge in their respective fields. I believe it is of benefit to both organisations that this knowledge is shared and I look forward to the relationship between both of them developing.

I note with interest that one of the strategic objectives of the ILO is to strengthen tripartism and social dialogue. It is a principle that I strongly endorse. In Ireland the social partnership process has brought considerable benefits through the active participation of Government, employers and trade unions.

That spirit of social partnership is strongly reflected in the structure and work of the Health and Safety Authority. Working together, through the Board of the HSA, both employers and trade unions have made a real difference to the health and safety of Irish workers.

The ILO works internationally to promote "decent work". This concept is defined as the opportunity for women and men to obtain decent and productive work in conditions of freedom, equity, security and human dignity.

It is clear to all that protecting the health and safety of employees is essential to realising the concept of "decent work".

As Minister for Labour Affairs, I am determined to see improved health and safety practices in Irish workplaces. I believe that no worker should be exposed to the threat of serious injury or illness at his or her workplace. I believe in decent work and I believe in decent working conditions. Health and safety must be a priority in all workplaces.

The Bill on Safety, Health and Welfare at Work, which is currently before the Oireachtas, marks the next phase of the Government’s commitment to improve the health and safety of workers. There are now 1.9 million employees in the workplace, compared to 1.2 million 15 years ago when the HSA was established. The Bill, when enacted, will set the scene for the enforcement by the HSA of safe working conditions and practices for the next 10 to 15 years.

The Health and Safety Authority has many international links, most notably of course through our membership of the European Union.

The Authority benefits hugely from these links. The knowledge and experience it gains across a wide range of areas make a real difference in Irish workplaces.

Today marks the beginning of another beneficial relationship. I wish the Health and Safety Authority, and their colleagues in the International Labour Organisation well as their relationship develops over the coming years.

ENDS/LA93