Government must legislate for changes

The Supreme Court judgment of the appeal concerning the role of the Labour Court, and the constitutional and legislative integrity of Joint Industrial Council agreements, highlighted the authority of article 15.2.1 of the Constitution.

The sole power of making laws for the State is vested in the Oireachtas.

The discussion led by the Labour Relations Commission about cuts in public sector pay involves ten trade unions. But the consequences of their deliberations impact every public sector employee and retiree.

Is it not disingenuous of Minister Brendan Howlin to threaten dissenting unions, and those not represented, by saying “the Government would take whatever action we need” to cut the public service pay bill?

Minister Howlin needs to lead and extend his reach past the ten trade unions playing ball with the Labour Relations Commission. The Government has to legislate for unilateral changes in employment contracts, if a legally enforceable outcome is sought.

Minister Howlin would be emulating Finance Minister Ernest Blythe in 1929, who cut the old age pension from 50 cents to 45 cents per week. Blythe valued a balanced budget.

Myles Duffy

Glenageary

Co Dublin