Motion no: 28
Congress notes that the rapid development of technology is a cause for concern amongst many retail workers in Northern Ireland.
Congress believes that much of the speculation about jobs being replaced by technology fails to recognise the vital human contact element of jobs in retail and other sectors. Too often, customers have new technology such as self-service checkouts imposed upon them when they would prefer to interact with a human being.
And whilst online shopping is convenient for some, going out to shop for groceries can be a social lifeline for others. Reducing social isolation and the health risks associated with that, particularly for elderly and other vulnerable shoppers.
Congress also notes that the food and fashion retail sectors in Northern Ireland could already be adversely affected if the UK leaves Europe with a ‘hard Brexit’. Without free access across the border to the Republic of Ireland, trade could be seriously impeded, and retail jobs could be at risk. In this unsteady political and economic climate, it is wrong for jobs to be put under further risk by the implementation of new technologies.
Congress acknowledges that technology can, if used correctly, enhance productivity and contribute to better job design. However, in order to achieve this, employers need to consult meaningfully with workers, prior to making any changes, and to invest in training and support to ensure that workers are able to use it successfully.
Congress calls on the ICTU to campaign for:
- Greater recognition of the vital role of the retail workforce within the economy on Northern Ireland and in local communities.
- Stronger rights to workplace consultation on changes to jobs when new technology is introduced.
- A focus on developing digital skills through lifelong learning, including trade union learning.
