MEPs to discuss controversial labour law

Irish MEPs are gathering in Dublin today to explain their views on the controversial EU Services Directive before next week’s crucial vote.

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions said organisations have been criticising the proposed legislation as a threat to workers and consumers.

ICTU said this was due to a clause which would allow foreign companies to operate in the Irish market on the basis of their own domestic laws.

David Begg of ICTU said this was part of the race to the bottom in pay and working conditions.

The MEPs, who will be explaining their stance on the directives at the ICTU organised seminar, include Fianna Fáil’s Eoin Ryan and Fine Gael’s Simon Coveney.

Other speakers include Proinsias de Rossa of the Labour Party, Marian Harkin who is an Independent MEP and TD Arthur Morgan who will give Sinn Féin’s view on the directive.

The European Parliament is due to hold a vote on the EU Services Directive next week.