12/12/2007

Minister Announces Mushroom Industry Agreement

Irish Minister for Labour Affairs, Billy Kelleher, has announced the registration of a new employment agreement within the mushroom industry.

The Registered Employment Agreement has been agreed between Drimbawn Mushroom Ltd, which has a number of operations in Mayo and Kildare, and SIPTU, representing mushroom workers in these operations.

The effect of registering this agreement with the Labour Court is to make the provisions of the agreement legally enforceable.

Mr Kelleher said: "This is a significant development in this industry and I congratulate the parties involved in drawing up this agreement. The initiative they have shown in providing for minimum pay rates and terms and conditions of employment for these workers, which are legally enforceable, is to be welcomed.

"The mushroom sector has been the subject of criticism in recent times as a result of an element of exploitation of vulnerable workers in the sector, particularly migrant workers. It is therefore good to see an enlightened approach on a partnership basis being taken to address these concerns by Drimbawn and SIPTU."

The agreement, in addition to setting out minimum rates of pay also includes provisions on such areas as hours of work, leave entitlements, trade union representation and responsibilities, and grievance and dispute resolution procedures.

The minister added: "I am very encouraged at the commitment shown in successfully negotiating this agreement and I hope that the conclusion of this agreement will set an example for others to follow."

(KMcA)


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