Speaking after the announcement today by the Economy minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald, ICTU Assistant General Secretary Gerry Murphy commented
The trade unions will welcome this latest development in the legislative process for a Good Jobs bill which will fully utilise Stormont’s devolved powers over employment law.
The NI Executive has the opportunity to create a meaningful legacy for every working family in Northern Ireland by approving a new employment bill for the NI Assembly and its Economy Committee to debate its proposals and amend as necessary, all the way from first reading to royal assent.
The Minister’s policy position paper announced is a vital step forward. It reflects the broad range of issues that business and unions debated in the LRA Engagement Forum and over last summer’s extensive consultation process, and separately among the ICTU’s affiliated unions.
While today’s announcement marks progress, it must be emphasised that this is not yet legislation. Over the coming days, ICTU will reengage with our affiliates to assess the details of these proposals, and we look forward to further discussions to work through the finer points and ensure that the strongest possible protections for workers are realised.
Much of what is proposed isn’t radical — it represents basic, long-overdue modernisation to bring Northern Ireland’s employment rights in line with standards already in place in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. It's important to be clear that this is not the final Bill. The real test will come in whether these proposals lead to strong, enforceable rights that deliver for working people.
We particularly welcome the recognition within the paper of the essential role that trade unions play in representing workers. Acknowledging that trade unions not only have a place at the table but also make a meaningful, constructive contribution and their rights are to be strengthened is a positive development. Where unions are present and have rights, we see better outcomes - not just for workers, but for employers, the economy, and society as a whole.
