No need for unions, says BT

BT IRELAND has claimed there is no need for trade union representation for its workers south of the border — as the company has its own dispute resolution processes in place.

BT Ireland and its workers come before the Labour Relations Commission on Monday, after the Communications Workers’ Union (CWU) demanded to be recognised by the company as representing its workers on this side of the border.

The CWU represents BT Ireland workers in the North but the company has refused to recognise its southern equivalent.

A protest by a delegation of 50 workers due to take place earlier this week, was called off after the company agreed to discuss the matter at the Labour Relations Commission.

A spokeswoman for BT Ireland said: “BT Ireland has put in place comprehensive policies and procedures for dealing directly with our employees on any issues they may have.

“Our Employee Consultation Forum, BT Voices, was created with the specific purpose of representing employee views and sharing feedback on a broad range of issues via representatives elected by our employees.

“We believe this is an effective channel, along with many other company processes, by which matters of concern are raised in the company.

“We have been in discussions via the Labour Relations Commission Advisory Service previously and a further meeting to clarify issues is not out of the ordinary.”