Trade unions urge workers to back treaty

A group of trade unions joined forces today in a final bid to convince workers the Lisbon Treaty was essential for their rights.

The Charter Group maintained a yes vote on Friday is also vital in securing employment in the country.

Chairman Des Geraghty said Ireland needs a strong Europe to help its economic recovery.

“And that needs a yes vote for the Lisbon Treaty,” said Siptu’s former general president.

“Ireland’s future depends on export led growth and that needs a strong economy in Europe.

“Only yes can help to achieve this, and a no will only weaken Europe economically.”

Union leaders maintain the treaty is an important new step towards a social Europe that aims for full employment, social protection and combats social exclusion.

Members of the Charter Group also believe ratification is the only way to secure the Charter of Fundamental Rights as primary EU law.

It is backed by Peter McLoone, Impact general secretary, the Communications Workers’ Union and the Irish Nurses Organisation.

Two leading trade unions oppose the Lisbon Treaty claiming that it will damage workers’ rights.

The Unite organisation and the Technical Engineering and Electrical Union came together to call for a no vote.

Blair Horan, head of the Civil and Public Services Union and Charter Group secretary disputed their claims insisting a yes vote was essential to promote workers’ rights.

“This opportunity will not come around again,” said Mr Horan.

“Lies and misinformation had been the stock in trade of the no side on the minimum wage and a so-called race to the bottom on wages.

“Ireland had extensive minimum wage protection. The claims of a race to the bottom are just not factual.”