SIPTU calls for changes to redundancy law

SIPTU has called for an urgent review of redundancy legislation following a number of high-profile blows to the Irish jobs market.

The trade union wants the Government to update the Redundancy Payment Act, raising the legal minimum pay-out to workers laid off by their employers.

SIPTU general secretary John McDonnell said the fact that many workers with up to 30 years service get just £12,000 in redundancy payments highlights the need for a review of the legislation.

More than 1,000 Dubliners are currently facing unemployment following the closure of Gateway Ireland and the Kylemore Bakery, while 400 people were laid off when the Irish Ispat plant in Cork closed.

More job losses are expected in the future, especially in the IT sector, as the worldwide economic slump begins to take hold.

SIPTU is currently working on a number of recommendations aimed at raising redundancy payments for anyone who loses their job due to the recession.

The union has urged the Government to take these on board to ensure that those working in vulnerable industries are protected by law.