SHOPFLOOR ONLINE EDITION - NEW DEAL FOR DISTRIBUTION & RETAIL WORKERS P4 - UPFRONT GERRY LIGHT P2 l INSIDE STORY DEBENHAMS P20
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SHOPFLOOR
MANDATE TRADE UNION ONLINE EDITION
DECEMBER 2020
NEW DEAL FOR DISTRIBUTION & RETAIL WORKERS P4
UPFRONT GERRY LIGHT P2 l INSIDE STORY DEBENHAMS P20
COVER STORY
OPINION FRONT COVER ILLUSTRATION: Barry McGowan
2020 – a year to reflect
UPFRONT
THIS is the first opportunity I have had to pen that some businesses have done very
this piece as the General Secretary of our proud nicely as a direct consequence of Covid
and distinguished union and I want to say it is a through significant increases in turnover
pleasure and honour to do so. and profits.
Twelve months ago the term Covid-19 was unknown along Whether it is over the past nine months,
or indeed as we head into 2021, the best
Gerry Light
with any understanding of the deadly virus to which it re-
ferred. There can be little doubt that the rapid and intense
General Secretary, way of facing uncertainty is not individu-
spread of this global pandemic has virtually stopped us all in Mandate Trade Union ally. By acting in this isolated manner it will
our tracks and forced us to not only look at always ensure that workers’ interests are
how we reorganise our day-to-day lives but placed secondary to those of business and
also to reassess the things which are impor- the market.
tant beyond those of material value. If nothing else the Covid crisis has shown
It is also an opportunity to challenge from a societal perspective what can be
the societal and economic norms which achieved through acting collectively. The
value a job purely from a financial per- notion of the common good has quite
spective instead of asking what contribu- rightly been given a renewed sense of
tion it makes to our society as a whole, focus and importance.
particularly during a time of national cri- The workplace is merely a microcosm of
sis. society. What we need now is to see a trans-
Regrettably many sectors, industries and fer of these values by workers into their
businesses have been ravaged over the place of work and to help them build an
past nine months with the world of retail in understanding of how they can lead to
particular being severely impacted. This greater levels of reward, respect, fulfilment
stark reality has meant thousands of retail Picture: Jonathan Cutrer, Public Domain
Being a union operating predominantly in They have put themselves literally in the and dignity.
workers have lost their jobs with others
having their incomes seriously depleted. the retail sector, Mandate has along with its line of fire and the least they deserve in re- The power and benefits that can evolve
from a collective approach are clearly
Those who have remained at work pro- members been very much in the eye of the turn is appropriate appreciation and due
storm. Clearly the biggest impact so far has consideration. proven all we need to do is reassert our
viding what now is generally accepted as
been the loss of more than 1,000 good qual- With the advancement of technology al- confidence in the belief that by joining to-
an essential public service have to face the
ity retail jobs following the decision of lowing for greater levels of automation and gether in common purpose this approach
constant threat and worry of contracting
Debenhams to close its Irish operation. the way these developments have changed will continue to deliver in the future.
the virus.
What has followed over the past nine customers’ shopping habits there can be lit- As the recently appointed General Secre-
months is a determined and heroic effort by tle doubt that the shape of traditional bricks tary of Mandate I give you an absolute as-
our members who have been involved in and mortar retail has also significantly surance that myself, the staff and members
actively picketing, in some cases 24/7, the 11 changed over the past number of years, the
ex-Debenhams stores in pursuit of a just of our National Executive Council will con-
arrival of Covid has served to accelerate
and fair settlement to their industrial dis- tinue to tirelessly strive to lead our mem-
these trends considerably.
pute. bers through the current challenges facing
Notwithstanding the promising news that
Clearly this has been and continues to be us.
is emerging on a daily basis about potential
a long and difficult struggle for the mem- vaccines there can be little doubt the world We will ensure that the interests of our
bers involved and we are committed to en- of retail that will emerge post-Covid has the members are always to the forefront –
sure that their efforts will not be in vain. potential to be radically different. whether it’s in relation to issues directly im-
Also significant numbers of our members This is why Mandate continues to demand pacting them in the workplace or indeed
employed in the bar trade have seen their from Government the establishment of a the broader social justice matters that im-
livelihoods wiped out with growing uncer- specific taskforce charged with the respon- pact them and their dependents.
tainty about the future of the sector and the sibility of identifying supports for the future Never before has the wish for you, your
many thousands workers it employs. of traditional bricks and mortar retailing and families and friends to have a happy, safe
There is no price too great which can the thousands of jobs it supports. and enjoyable Christmas and New Year
be placed on human health and Post-Covid some employers will seek, in been more sincere and appropriate. It’s
that is why we will continue to the greedy pursuit of greater profits, to take
prioritise the absolute need to been a tough year, unfortunately far too
advantage of the situation – in fact, there is many of us knew those who paid the ulti-
ensure that our members who evidence that this type of unscrupulous be-
turn up for work on a daily mate price.
haviour has already started.
basis are afforded the great- However, as we head into 2021 let’s do so
est levels of protection and Going forward it will be the role of your in the confidence of knowing that if we
respect from both employ- union in consort with you the members to
continue to have each other’s backs and
ers and customers alike. fight back against these unjustified at-
commit to acting in unity and common
tacks on your hard-won, long-established
There must be zero toler- purpose the future holds more promise
terms and conditions of employment.
ance against behaviour than fear. So let’s stop hoping for a better
from any quarter that has To those employers who were quick to
new year, instead let’s resolve to do what
the potential to nega- laud the contributions of their workers dur-
ing the Covid crisis, we say it is now time to we can within our control to make it hap-
tively impact our mem-
go beyond words of gratitude with other pen.
bers’ physical or mental
well-being. forms of meaningful recognition and re- Have a great Christmas and New Year,
ward. It is hard to escape the ironic reality you deserve it.
Shopfloor is published bi-monthly by Mandate Trade Union. Mandate Head Office, O'Lehane House, 9 Cavendish Row, Dublin 1 T: 01-8746321/2/3 F: 01-8729581 W: www.mandate.ie
Design & Editing: Brazier Media E: braziermedia@btinternet.com W:www.brazier.media Shopfloor is edited, produced and printed by trade union labour
2 SHOPFLOOR y December 2020
NEWS
BAH HUMBUG!
LLoyds Pharmacy ‘Scrooges’ cancel Xmas staff bonus
LLOYDS Pharmacy bosses have been they had of Christmas cheer. country. Lloyds staff kept the pharma‐ Mandate National Coordinator
accused of acting like “cold‐hearted One worker, summing up the feel‐ cies open. Lloyds staff made sure that Brian Forbes slammed Lloyds bosses
misers” after a Scrooge‐like decision ings of colleagues, said: “We feel we elderly and more vulnerable cus‐ and claimed the move was an “insult”
was taken to cancel Christmas bonus should be given a bonus this year tomers were looked after… Lloyds to workers.
payments. more than ever.” staff got Covid. Lloyds staff deserve a He told Shopfloor: “To be encour‐
Workers are furious they will not Brian Dowling’s virtual Christmas Christmas bonus.” aged now by the company to engage in
now pocket a yearly ‘thank you’ pay‐ social – including festive TikTok
ment worth between €150 to €400 videos, games of charades and bingo – ‘Equitable’ TikTok fun and games with Brian
Lloyds claimed the Christmas bonus Dowling instead of being paid their
each. took place on November 21st for
was withdrawn as part of a new “more hard‐earned Christmas bonus is
And it comes after months of ex‐ pharmacy staff.
traordinary efforts by Lloyds workers Not to be outdone, Mandate mem‐ transparent and equitable” monthly frankly an insult to the tireless and sig‐
to keep the pharmacies open during bers at Lloyds Pharmacy launched a bonus structure to reward employees. nificant sacrifices made by these es‐
the Covid‐19 pandemic. virtual event of their own – an online However, the claim was disputed by sential frontline workers.
Workers insisted a special seasonal petition to restore the bonus. Mandate lead organiser Bill Abom “Lloyds Pharmacy bosses are prov‐
online event hosted by former Big The petition stated: “It’s been eight who insisted this did not constitute ing themselves the cold‐hearted mis‐
Brother star Brian Dowling did abso‐ months since Leo Varadkar made his part of the talks arranged to restruc‐ ers and the big bad Scrooge of the Big Brother star Brian Dowling
lutely nothing to restore any feelings Covid lockdown announcement to the ture a separate bonus. Irish pharmacy sector.” Picture: Public Domain
FESTIVE MESSAGE TO BOSSES, GOVERNMENT AND SHOPPERS... Mandate is calling on the Govern-
ment to:
l Provide clarity around the en‐
Have a safe and respectful Christmas
MANDATE has called on all employ‐
forcement of fines for the refusal to
adhere to Covid regulations.
Mandate is calling on shoppers to:
l Adhere to social distancing
guidelines.
l Use hand sanitizer and wash
Picture: Volodymyr Hryshchenko on Unsplash
ers to strictly adhere to Covid‐19 pro‐ your hands regularly.
tocols as the retail sector reopens in l Be patient with retail staff and
the run up to Christmas. other customers and under no cir‐
And the union, which represents cumstances verbally abuse, threaten
almost 30,000 workers in the retail or assault shop workers.
sector, has also called on consumers Light said: “Christmas is always a
to respect retail workers following an busy and very stressful period for ev‐
increase in abusive behaviour. eryone, but particularly shop work‐
General Secretary Gerry Light in‐ ers, and this year will be more
sisted the health and safety of work‐ difficult than most.
ers must always be of paramount “We’re asking people to be mindful
importance. of the pressures facing shop workers
He said: “The current Covid regula‐ and remember that workers request‐
tions must be strictly adhered to if we ing that customers abide by health
are to reduce transmission of this
and safety policies do so at the behest
deadly disease and ensure we don’t
of their employer and government
go into a third lockdown – which
regulations.”
would obviously be bad for employ‐
He added: “If we are genuine about
ers, workers and the economy.
our appreciation for the ‘essential
“But crucially, we need to protect
work’ of retail staff, then we must all
the health and well‐being of retail
workers and their families and that play our part over the coming weeks
includes affording them dignity and and months. Respect retail workers,
ers of the utmost importance. l Strictly adhere to the wearing of
Picture: Belinda Fewings on Unsplash
respect at work.” and remember that respect is not just
All employers should: face coverings and manage social dis‐ for Christmas.”
Light added: “We have received nu‐
l Ensure shops are not over‐ tancing, using qualified staff to police
merous complaints from retail work‐
crowded by managing queuing sys‐ these policies.
ers who have been verbally abused or
tems and controlling numbers inside l Make regular announcements
threatened by customers after they
and outside of stores. on intercoms about social distancing
were requested to wear masks or to
l Investigate whether to extend and other health and safety mea‐
socially distance. Abuse is never part
opening times to spread the cus‐ sures.
of the job, and in these difficult times,
it’s essential that we recognise the ef‐ tomer base, while also allowing des‐ l Ensure an adequate supply of
forts of our frontline workers and we ignated times for vulnerable hand sanitizer is available at all times.
all protect them from abusive be‐ customers. l Adopt a zero‐tolerance ap‐
haviour.” l Allow workers the voluntary proach from customers towards staff
Mandate has calling on employers, option of working beyond their and remove abusive customers from
consumers and the Government to agreed hours and times and ade‐ the premises while providing sup‐
ensure the health and safety of work‐ quately rewarding them for this. ports for workers. Mandate General Secretary Gerry Light
McCauley pharmacy chain reinstates Christmas bonus for staff
A MANDATE delegation held a “constructive temporarily laid‐off during the year would also Mandate also spoke about understaffing, with brought to the attention of senior management.
and informative” meeting with management at receive the bonus as normal, which the com‐ McCauley management stating that they were The Mandate delegation raised a number of
McCauley Health & Beauty Pharmacy on pany plans to pay by the first week of Decem‐ beginning to “address the gaps” which they health and safety concerns at the meeting with
November 18th, resulting in a number of what ber.” blamed on an increase in worker‐absenteeism management representatives reiterating their
was described as “positive and welcome out‐ However, company representatives claimed due to the Covid‐19 pandemic. full commitment to all Covid‐19 related safety
comes for members”, including confirmation they couldn’t afford the 2.2% pay rise but did Management, however, did confirm that tem‐
measures.
that a Christmas bonus will be paid this year. promise to review the issue early in the New porary Christmas staff would be taken on as
The family chemist chain operates more than Year. normal in December. Meanwhile, it was also confirmed that
30 stores nationally and employs over 500 staff. The source commented: “We made it clear to Company representatives also pointed out progress is being made on finalising a recogni‐
A Mandate source told Shopfloor: “It was con‐ them that we were seeking to have the pay rise that understaffing issues could be raised and tion/procedural agreement between Mandate
firmed at the meeting that the Christmas bonus backdated to October when it was due. We will addressed with the shop manager and if no res‐ and the company. This agreement will set out
would be reinstated, and that staff who were revisit this matter again early in 2021.” olution is found, the matter could then be how both sides engage going forward.
December 2020 y SHOPFLOOR 3
NEWS
PAN-UNION INITIATIVE
‘New Deal’ campaign
launched for retail &
distribution workers
RETAIL and distribution workers
are demanding a ‘new deal’ that will
Work standards as a key priority, who has responsibility for the retail
including improved pay and sector.
tackle low pay and insecure work conditions, trade union Speaking in support of the
and help rebuild the sector after the representation and collective campaign, Mandate General
Covid‐19 pandemic, as part of a bargaining, along with access to Secretary Gerry Light told Shopfloor:
campaign launched by trade unions training and upskilling. “The pandemic exposed how
representing workers across sector. Rebuilding the sector post‐ essential service workers in retail
A New Deal for Retail & pandemic and ensuring fair and distribution are among the
Distribution Workers sets out the competition between online trading lowest paid and least well protected.
key measures needed to restore and and the traditional ‘bricks and “This must change and this 1. No state aid without
rebuild the sector after the
pandemic, by tackling the serious
mortar’ high street model will require demand for change is supported by
significant financial and policy the workers, by a range of expert decent work
issues around low pay, working assistance from the Median weekly bodies and
conditions and poor job quality that
were exposed by the health
Government, according
to the document.
wage for wholesale commentators
political
and by
leaders.
2. Decent pay
& retail workers...
emergency. Trade unions and Indeed, it is an issue
The campaign, launched on workers must play ‘an the Tánaiste Leo 3. Secure hours & benefits
December 8th, is backed by the integral role’ in Varadkar has also been
Irish Congress of Trade Unions’
Retail Sector Group, which
developing a
blueprint and ‘future‐
new vocal on.
He added: “The
4. A Voice at Work
comprises unions representing proofed model’ for the time for promises is
workers in retail and distribution retail and distribution past. Now is the time
across the island of Ireland, sector. Given the essential to act and to deliver a Picture: Alisdair (CC BY 2.0)
including Mandate, SIPTU, Unite, roles played by retail and New Deal for workers new blueprint for this vital sector of Niall McNally agreed. He said:
USDAW and the GMB. distribution workers in the sector.” our economy.” “Workers in the sector are also fac‐
A New Deal for Retail & during the pandemic, there Michelle Quinn, of North of the border, Usdaw Area ing challenges in respect of online
Distribution Workers calls for the is a strong desire for progressive SIPTU, said: “The retail and Organiser Nicola Scarborough said: trading, automation and the wide
establishment of a Retail change to employment standards distribution sector faces enormous
“The pandemic exposed how essen‐ range of new skills that will be re‐
Stakeholder Group composed of within the sector. challenges into the future. We now
tial service workers in retail and dis‐ quired into the future.
trade unions, retail employers and Workers will not support “a return have an opportunity to break with
to business as usual and to the old, the failed model of the past and build tribution are among the lowest paid “If we are to rebuild the sector in
key government departments that
would be tasked with devising a failed model,” the campaign a sector that delivers quality jobs and and least well protected. They de‐ a sustainable manner, we need to
new blueprint for the retail and document points out. growth. serve and are rightly entitled to far prioritise the creation of good qual‐
distribution sector to help it recover The Congress Retail Sector Group “We need to address challenges better. ity jobs. The time for promises and
after the pandemic. has called on all political parties to like online trading, automation and “As we move to rebuild the sector applause is past. Now is the time to
The campaign document states support the New Deal for Retail & the range of new skills the future in the aftermath of the pandemic and deliver a new deal for workers in
that workers in the sector can “no Distribution Workers campaign and workplace will require. To do this brace for the impact of Brexit, we the sector.”
longer afford the price of the low proposals and is seeking an urgent successfully we need the voice, need to put decent work standards l A New Deal for Retail &
pay and insecure work” and that a engagement on these key issues with knowledge and commitment of front and centre of that process.” Distribution Workers can be
new deal must embrace Decent Minister of State Damien English, workers to help shape and inform a And Befast‐based SIPTU organiser downloaded at: https://bit.ly/33WRPME
4 SHOPFLOOR y December 2020
NEWS
Great support for striking
service station workers
MANDATE members working for a months ago staff members at the
Carrick‐on‐Suir service station have service station joined the union and
staged two days of strike action in had wanted it to negotiate pay, sick
the run‐up to Christmas over the pay and rosters on their behalf.
employer’s failure to engage with O’Sullivan’s was approached by
their union on pay and working union representatives in early
conditions. October but steadfastly refused to
The workers picketed outside engage despite all the union's best
O'Sullivan's Applegreen and Centra efforts to communicate by letter,
Service Station at Ballylynch on email and phone.
Thursday, December 10th and Friday, Dillon pointed out members were
December 18th. left with no option but go on strike.
They said they had received Mandate had, she said, served notice
tremendous backing from passing
of strike action ahead of the statutory
pedestrians and motorists
seven‐day notice period but this had
throughout the two days in their bid
also been ignored by management.
to secure trade union recognition.
A local newspaper reported that “This isn't anything that anyone
the strikers had been greeted with wants to do but we have been left
“honking horns of support” from with no other choice,” she said.
many motorists driving past the Pill Dillon told the newspaper: “These
Road station as well as messages of workers have worked on the
good will from passers‐by. frontline all through the Covid‐19
It stated: “Most vehicles that pandemic and still are. This is 2020
approached the service station to use and just because staff join a union the
the shop or get petrol or diesel drove sky is not going to fall in.”
on rather than pass the picket.” She added that the dispute could
Mandate Divisional Organiser be resolved very quickly by the
Betty Dillon, explaining the owner picking up the phone and
background to the dispute, said some engaging with Mandate.
December 2020 y SHOPFLOOR 5
NEWS
Mandate warns
of drone threat
to retail jobs
MANDATE has warned jobs in the re‐
tail sector could be threatened by de‐
deliveries – involving an initial range
of 700 products – are being offered to
veloping “game changer” drone customers from its local store.
technology. But Forbes claimed there was a
National Coordinator Brian Forbes number of what he called
said: “Some companies, such as “unanswered questions” for the
Amazon and UPS, have been touting drone industry in Ireland to answer
the need for an increased use of as Irish laws play catch‐up with
unmanned drone technologies for a European legislation.
number of years.
“Much like the use of self‐service Weak
tills at supermarkets the increased He explained: “The Irish Aviation
use of drones for deliveries will see Authority regards these unmanned
jobs being endangered by this aerial vehicles as aircraft but the laws
exponential growth in technology.” in Ireland for misuse are extremely
He made the comments after it was weak with only one prosecution since Picture: Caleb Woods on Unsplash
revealed that Oranmore, Co Galway, the laws were introduced back in delivered within 30 minutes to one 19 pandemic, and choose the small compensate all workers directly and
has been chosen to take part in a 2015.” hour of ordering, The drones fly at Midlands town of Moneygall as its indirectly affected by the
‘pilot’ initiative to test the viability of It is understood Oranmore speeds of 80km/h with a capacity to test location. introduction of new technologies and
delivering shopping by drone. residents place their order at a lift 4kg (9lb) of shopping good Forbes told Shopfloor: “Mandate meaningfully consult and negotiate
Tesco teamed up with Irish‐based special website which is then packed packed into a cargo cassette which is fully appreciates the fact that with trade unions before, during and
drone delivery company Manna to up by a Tesco worker in‐store. The then lowered to the ground as the automation is a potential game‐ after the implementation of any
run the Oranmore service, which delivery is overseen by a Manna machine hovers above its destination. changer for many retailers looking to proposed new technology.”
started in late October and is drone supervisor. Earlier this year, Manna Aero cut costs and boost profits in our He added: “For those of you
expected to run over several months. Drone orders run 9.30am‐5pm abandoned a plan to deliver takeaway capitalist society. dreaming about pizza delivery by
Led by the retailer’s Group from Tuesday to Sunday and can be orders in favour of prescription “However, these retailers must drone, just stop – it’s a pie‐in‐the‐sky
Innovation team small basket tracked in real‐time, with purchases medicines in response to the Covid‐ recognise, appreciate and idea.”
IN BRIEF
Members at Malahide GC
reject pay freeze proposals
Mandate seeks clarification from IN BRIEF
Members in North Dublin
SuperValu being balloted
TALKS are continuing between
union officials and management
at Malahide Golf Club after
members rejected proposals to
Minister over Covid-related benefit
FRONTLINE retail workers have been workers were not placed at a disad‐
MANDATE members at three Su-
perValu stores in North Dublin –
outlets in Killester, Raheny and
Talbot Street – are being bal-
freeze pay until 2022. left “high and dry” by the Govern‐ vantage through loss of earnings as a loted on a deal involving a 1.5%
Negotiations – launched ment, Mandate National Coordinator pay rise backdated to October
result of Covid‐19 absences from
March 2020 but subsequently 1st, 2020. The agreement is for
for Training Jonathan Hogan has work, whether due to instructions to
suspended due to Covid-19 and 18 months to April 1st, 2022.
the initial lockdown – recom- claimed. “self‐isolate” or to “restrict move‐
He told Shopfloor: “The wages of ments”. It is the first time the Super-
menced in October. Valu store in Talbot Street has
retail workers should be safeguarded In her October 8th reply, Minister
Mandate welcomes 3% whether they’re deemed to be self‐
isolating or restricting their move‐
Humphreys described the Covid‐19
been included in the pay deal
and the union is recommending
Enhanced Illness Benefit as a “short‐
pay rise for Nolan’s staff ments.” term public health measure” and not
acceptance of this proposal.
Meanwhile, in correspondence
Hogan made the comments follow‐ a “long‐term income support pay‐ with the union, management ac-
NOLAN’S management have an- ing the implementation of the Covid‐
nounced that they will put in ment”. It was designed to “encourage knowledged their “huge grati-
19 Enhanced Illness Benefit and people not to go to work due to finan‐ tude” to staff “during these
place a 3% pay rise for staff from
the beginning of 2021. came amid warnings that shop work‐ cial constraint when they should be challenging times”.
Industrial Officer John Callan ers could find themselves without a Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys in isolation”.
told Shopfloor:“Having written to wage over restrictions placed on She pointed out that employers
their movements by HSE guidelines. colleagues’ family members are
the company in early November symptomatic, are awaiting a Covid were being asked to facilitate remote
seeking a meeting to discuss the He highlighted these concerns in a
test and the close contact worker or working “where possible” but did
upcoming expiry date of our cur- September 22nd letter to Heather
parent must restrict their movements recognise that this was not possible
rent pay deal, the company an- Humphreys, the Minister for Employ‐
in some sectors of the economy, such
nounced on 3rd December that
they would implement a 3% pay
ment Affairs and Social Protection.
“Retail workers working at high
for a period of time.
“Another example is where our as retail. Ex-Debenhams workers
increase from 1STJanuary 2021.
“Although the union welcomes
risk on the frontline should not be at members may find themselves to be
a close contact of a confirmed case
Minister Humphreys continued: “In
the event of an employee being told
thank Fórsa for donation
any loss, regarding absences at‐
this announcement we will con- tributed to Covid‐19,” he told the Min‐ and are advised to restrict their by their employer to go home or stay THE ex-Debenhams workers on
tinue to raise further issues with ister. movements for 14 days or whatever at home for a period of time without strike in Galway wanted to send
the retailer following on from the Hogan pointed out that the Covid‐ period of time the HSE recommend at pay, they may be entitled to claim the a special thank you to the Fórsa
results of a recent survey con- 19 Enhanced Illness Benefit seemed the time.” Pandemic Unemployment Payment Galway Branch after it made a
ducted among our members Hogan claimed that some Mandate or Jobseekers Benefit/Allowance. If big-hearted €500 donation to
only to deal with employees “self‐iso‐
working in Nolan’s.” not eligible for those payments then the strikers.
lating” as a result of exposure to the members were caught between “their
He said:“Pay was, of course, the they may apply for Supplementary Shop steward Karen Shaugh-
virus but not to those requested to public health and social obligations” nessy, speaking to Shopfloor
central concern for staff at the re-
“restrict their movements” as set out and “the loss of their income” – and Welfare Allowance.”
tailer. While we welcome the from the picket line on Novem-
awarding of a 3% pay increase, in the HSE guidelines. warned that this was a “grave posi‐ This Supplementary Welfare Al‐ ber 23rd, said: “We really, really
Mandate will follow up with man- He explained to the Minister: “An tion” for any worker to find them‐ lowance, she added, was in place to appreciate the donation from
agement on the various issues example of where the ‘restrictive selves in which was “particularly provide “immediate and flexible as‐ Fórsa and wanted to acknowl-
highlighted in the feedback we movements’ definition may impact amplified” when they were low paid. sistance” for those who did not qual‐ edge such a practical example of
received.” workers negatively is in scenarios He called on the Minister to review ify for payment under other State solidarity in action.”
where a worker’s colleagues or their the scheme to ensure that retail schemes.
6 SHOPFLOOR y December 2020
NEWS
BALLOT
85% vote
in favour
of pay deal
MANDATE members at SuperValu
MOPI have comprehensively voted in
favour of a pay package agreed be‐
tween management at the retailer
and trade unions.
It follows a lengthy series of nego‐
tiations between officials from Man‐
date and SIPTU and SuperValu MOPI
management with the help of WRC
Conciliation Services.
Divisional Organiser Keith Pollard
told Shopfloor: “We are pleased to an‐
nounce that a set of proposals was
agreed by postal ballot – with 85% of
votes cast in favour of the proposals.
“The pay element of the agreement
sees all Mandate members in Super‐
Valu MOPI receive a 2% pay increase
backdated to February 3rd, 2020. A
further 2% pay increase will be
awarded on July 31st, 2021 with the
agreement expiring on January 31st,
2022.
ESTEE LAUDER STRIKERS “Furthermore the company will
pay an additional 2% one‐off pay‐
ment on all earnings for the period
‘We’re looking to be treated fairly’
ESTEE Lauder workers at Dublin Air‐
port have taken part in a series of
than compulsory redundancy and to
negotiate any subsequent redun‐
ber of years of service we have given
to the company. It’s a big company, a
“It is regrettable that a company the
size of Estee Lauder would force their
February 3rd to August 30th, 2020.”
strike actions in September and Oc‐ dancy package, including selection big operation, a multi billion dollar workers go on strike for a second
tober in a bid to prevent their com‐ criteria, with the union. company. All we want is to be treated time rather than offer them the re‐
pany issuing compulsory The union is also seeking to negoti‐ fairly.” spect they deserve.
redundancies to some members of
staff as well as the rehiring of others
on inferior terms and conditions of
ate the terms and conditions of those
employees who remain in the busi‐
ness.
Echoing that comment, Mandate
Divisional Organiser Robert McNa‐
mara called on Estee Lauder “to have
“All it would take to prevent this
strike is for the company to sit down
and negotiate with the workers
Union set
employment.
Workers standing on the picket
line at Dublin Airport roundabout on
Estee Lauder management failed to
attend a Labour Court hearing on
Tuesday, 6th October, which had been
respect for their workers”, and he in‐
sisted that that meant going through
the negotiation process to secure a
through their trade union.”
He added: “We’ve been left with no
alternative but to refer this dispute to to review
21st and 25th September and 2nd,
4th and 5th October generated a
great deal of support from passing
motorists entering and exiting the
arranged to try and break the im‐
passe.
Speaking from the picket line on
package “that’s fair for everyone con‐
cerned.”
He said: “The fact the company is
attempting to make workers apply for
the Labour Court and ask for an ur‐
gent hearing.”
McNamara pointed out that the its in-store
structures
the first strike day, Jackie Gibbons, strikers had been shown great sup‐
terminals complex. said: “They forced compulsory redun‐ their own jobs on inferior terms port from the public and said work‐
The upmarket cosmetics firm is dancy on to us and are only [giving should be a concern for everyone. If ers wanted to thank them for that
seeking to implement the compul‐ us] a statutory redundancy package. Estee Lauder – one of the largest and backing.
sory redundancies on statutory They also made us re‐interview for most profitable enterprises on the He said: “These workers know that MANDATE is to launch a review of all
terms of two weeks pay per year of our positions.” planet – can treat their workers this the public is on their side and we’re in‐store union structures at Super‐
service. Jackie, who has worked for Estee appallingly, then it can happen to any‐ all extremely grateful for it. The ac‐ Valu MOPI in January 2021.
Mandate has called on Estee Lauder subsidiary Clinique for eight one.” tions of Estee Lauder management This comes after a comprehensive
Lauder to allow the workers to be years, added: “We’re just looking to And speaking before the second denying workers their rights is not a survey of Mandate shop stewards at
given the choice of voluntary rather be treated fairly considering the num‐ day of strike action, McNamara said: good look for a cosmetic firm.” the retailer was carried out in August
and September 2020.
It is understood the review will be
followed up an online training pro‐
gramme for shop stewards, deputy
shop stewards, House Committee
members and health & safety reps.
Divisional Organiser Keith Pollard
told Shopfloor: “Further details of this
campaign will be discussed and
agreed with all shop stewards and Di‐
visions in January 2021 in advance of
being launched to the wider member‐
ship.”
And he urged members to “keep an
eye on your union noticeboard or
through Mandate electronic commu‐
nications” for more details.
Note: if you are not receiving Man‐
date updates by text message, contact
the union at 018746321 or by emailing
mandate@mandate.ie to update contact
details.
December 2020 y SHOPFLOOR 7
VIEWPOINT
Retailers and Government must
Dave
lead by example and show
Gibney
respect to retail workers
AS WE move towards an easing of
Level 5 lockdown with shops opening
for Christmas, all of us – including
employers, the Government and cus‐
tomers – must show genuine respect
for frontline retail workers.
While we’ve heard words of sup‐
port from across Irish society for the
sacrifices shop workers have made,
very little has changed in terms of re‐
ally appreciating the efforts carried
out by workers in retail. If anything,
matters have worsened.
These “essential” workers – who
have kept us fed and clothed through‐
out the Covid‐19 emergency – don’t
deserve the indecent conditions
many are forced to work under. And
they certainly don’t deserve the level
of abuse heaped on many of them in
recent months for simply doing their
job.
So we must figure out a way for‐
ward that gives all workers, including
shop workers, some measure of dig‐
nity and respect.
Employers
Employers must ensure that work‐
ers’ health and safety is their utmost
priority – and that means making
sure all Covid regulations are strictly
adhered to.
Requirements are in place to en‐
sure retail outlets aren’t over‐
crowded. Overcrowding will, of
course, help spread the virus and lead
inexorably to an eventual third lock‐
down. As Christmas approaches, em‐ Retail workers
ployers must ensure they control serving customers
customer numbers both in queues have five-fold
and throughout their stores. Just a little respect: be kind when doing your festive shopping, don’t make Christmas miserable for our members – they have a hard job to do risk of catching Picture: Bernard Hermant on Unsplash
Covid-19
It is likely there will be a require‐ ments and to underline the retailer’s recognise a worker’s right to be rep‐ Abuse at work for asking customers to
ment to open shops later than usual strict policy of zero tolerance when it resented by a trade union for individ‐ There’s lots of anecdotal wear a mask.
to spread the customer base and comes to the abuse of staff by cus‐ ual or collective purposes, as is evidence that abuse at work – Employers must adopt a zero‐
Mandate supports recommendations tomers. enshrined in the UN Universal Decla- whether verbal, physical or threaten‐ tolerance approach to workplace
that vulnerable members of the When requested to do ration of Human Rights and the EU ing behaviour – has increased since abuse, including the removal of abu‐
public should be given desig‐ so by workers, employ‐ Charter for Fundamental Rights. the onset of the pandemic. Many sive customers and the provision of
nated shopping times. Retail workers ers should always workers are being subjected to abuse supports to workers who have borne
are assaulted, the brunt of customer rage.
However, it is also the view
threatened This abuse of retail workers didn’t
of the union that workers who
or abused once start from a low base. Mandate
are asked to work unsocial
every 6.5 days launched the Respect Retail Workers
hours or outside of their con‐
tractual provisions should do so survey in July 2018, long before the
onset of the Covid‐19 pandemic.
Picture: Adrien Delforge on Unsplash
on a voluntary basis and be ade‐
quately rewarded for it. The survey – completed by more
than 2,300 workers (75% of whom
Employers must strictly adhere to were female) – revealed:
the wearing of face coverings. How‐
Picture: Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
ever, it is not the responsibility of
shop workers to enforce such a policy
which has led to increasing levels of
abuse of workers. Employers should
have designated security staff trained
on handling such a provision.
Where possible, stores should also
make regular announcements to re‐
mind customers of their obligations
and of Covid‐19 regulations.
An adequate supply of hand sani‐
tizer should be widely available and
stores should be equipped with
proper signage, both to remind shop‐ it’s vitally important for everyone’s health and
pers of social distancing require‐ safety to follow in-shop Covid-19 policies
8 SHOPFLOOR y December 2020
3 out of
Picture: Arturo Rey on Unsplash
4 retail workers
l 44% had experienced verbal Duffy/Cahill recommendations to ing the wearing of face cov‐ said abuse lance is appreciated. https://mandate.ie/contact‐form/
abuse during the previous 12 prevent employers walking away erings and adhering to so‐ increased We understand the and we will ensure you are provided
months. from their obligations to employees cial distancing guidelines. during difficulties many cus‐ with all the necessary support.
l 19% had experienced verbal in future and so prevent a recurrence When hand sanitiser is pro‐ pandemic tomers are enduring but
abuse or violence when selling age‐ of what happened to the Debenhams vided, please use it and wash we are asking for their pa‐ Respect Retail Workers
restricted goods or services (alcohol workers. This would include ensuring your hands regularly. tience. Shop workers do not Christmas is a difficult time for
or tobacco). that any worker who has lost their It is in all of our interests that we personally put in place store policies shop workers – a time of the year
l 270 people (15%) had been job since the emergence of the pan‐ get the transmission of this virus – whether they are to do with Covid‐ when they are expected to work
threatened over the previous 12 demic has the right to avail of their under control and ensure there is no 19, refunds, the selling of restricted
collectively‐agreed redundancy pack‐ longer hours on relatively low wages,
months. need for a third lockdown. No worker goods, or anything else.
l 156 people (9%) had experi‐ age. face larger crowds and endure time
should have to go to work and worry Workers are simply enforcing poli‐
enced physical abuse during the pressures.
about contracting a deadly disease cies for their employer or for the Gov‐
course of their employment. Consumers This year will have an added bur‐
that they may bring home to vulner‐ ernment. Their job may be at risk if
The reality is that matters are Mandate is calling on all consumers able family members. So your vigi‐ they do not carry out their duties, so den in having to deal with a global
much worse now as a result of the to abide by health regulations includ‐ please be understanding and be nice. pandemic. We are asking that every‐
pandemic, so we need real action on Please also be patient and courteous one shows some empathy and under‐
this issue both from employers and with other customers. Who knows standing about the pressures retail
from the Government. what that other person is going workers are faced with.
through right now. The beginning of the pandemic saw
Government increasing levels of appreciation for
We already know that retail work‐ Workers the essential work being done by
ers are having their terms and condi‐ If you are a shop worker, join your nurses, carers and shop workers, but
tions changed with many employers union Mandate and ask your col‐ in truth, it didn’t take long before that
using the pandemic as an opportu‐ leagues to join. Together we can make appreciation dissipated.
nity to reduce costs. Lloyds Phar‐ a difference, whether at a local level As we now open up the economy
macy, for example, has taken away in enforcing adherence to regulations again, it is up to us all to ensure that
their workers’ Christmas bonus with‐ and improving terms and conditions this time the respect shown has a
out any negotiations. of employment, or at a national level longevity it didn’t have last time.
Mandate is calling on the Govern‐ where we can influence working con‐ We can all play our part – whether
ment to urgently bring in real repre‐ ditions and legislation. as an employer, in Government, as a
sentational rights for all workers. If you would like to get active with customer or a worker. Respect Retail
This includes the right of entry for Mandate, please message us at Workers and have a happy Christmas.
trade union officials to carry out
health and safety and workplace
rights inspections as well as for col‐
lective bargaining purposes.
The recently announced €80 fines
for those flouting the wearing of
masks is welcome, but it is still un‐
clear how this measure will be en‐
forced.
Where a customer has been abu‐
sive towards a retail worker, we need
legislation that affords workers
stronger protections. In the UK, the
House of Commons is due to debate
the Assaults on Retail Workers Bill in
January 2021.
This Bill, if implemented, would en‐
sure that an assault or threat that
took place against a retail worker
during the course of their employ‐
ment would be recognised by the
courts as an aggravating factor in‐
creasing the seriousness of the of‐
fence.
In Mandate’s Respect Retail
Worker Survey, 93% of respondents
said they would like to see changes to
criminal law to strengthen protec‐
tions for workers in the retail sector,
including those selling age‐restricted
goods or services. Mandate is calling
on political parties to look into this
Bill and replicate it in Ireland.
The final call on the Government is
for the swift implementation of the
December 2020 y SHOPFLOOR 9
NEWS
AMAZON
Black
Friday
protests
backed
MANDATE called on its members to
show soldarity and give support to
Amazon workers taking part in
#MakeAmazonPay protests across
the world, timed to coincide with that Picture: Fibonacci Blue (CC BY 2.0)
annual November 27th sales binge protests from Brazil to Germany to pay, and not forgetting for you – the The union wanted its members to Black Friday, he asked members not
known as ‘Black Friday’. highlight unsafe working conditions consumer – your user privacy!” send the text of an ‘open letter’ to to add a single cent to Jeff Bezos’ al‐
And members were asked to flood at the online retail colossus as well as He explained: “As Ireland’s largest Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos – the world’s ready bulging bank balance on
social media platforms with the hash‐ union for retail workers we want our richest man, worth $183bn – to their November 27th.
the employer’s anti‐union practices.
tags #OrganizeAmazon and #MakeA‐ members to support local jobs where local TD for them to sign. [Check out “Whatever you want on Black Fri‐
mazonPay on that day. “They also wanted to emphasise they can. You can support and show
the negative environmental impacts https://tinyurl.com/y5m3ykqb to download day can wait,” he said. “Every click
Mandate Communications Officer solidarity with these warehouse and you make on Amazon on that day af‐
Amazon has on the world, issues a copy of the letter.]
Dave Gibney told Shopfloor: “Amazon logistics workers by not purchasing fects thousands of workers around
Gibney continued: “Think about
workers staged these coordinated around Covid‐19 precautions, sick from Amazon.”
the workers who have to get your the globe.
order picked, packed and shipped “The message is simple: Support
within 24 hours of you clicking the Amazon workers, support their right
‘add to cart’ button. to form a union, support their right to
“Think about the environmental sick pay, support their right to work
impact that such a quick turnaround in safe conditions, support their right
creates. Think about the anti‐union to dignity in the workplace.
practices which make forming a “Your instant gratification when
union so difficult within Amazon.” you click has a direct impact on work‐
Urging members to shop local on ers lives and well‐being,” he added.
Covid exposed ‘big
failings’ on sick pay
CONGRESS General Secretary Patricia workplace accidents; they protect
King has claimed it took a global pan‐ others.”
demic to expose the “big failings” in The consultation, launched on
Dear Member, how workers were protected against November 16th, comes after Tánaiste
loss of income due to sickness. and Minister for Employment Leo
We are excited to announce that MC2 – your very own online training She made her comments following Varadkar issued an invite to ICTU and
the launch in November of a public employer representative bodies to
and job-matching platform – is live now! We believe that this platform consultation on plans to guarantee all discuss the design of a statutory sick
workers the right to sick pay. pay scheme.
gives our members the best possible chance to succeed in these King said: “Unlike workers in Varadkar has already put on record
nearly all European countries, work‐ his commitment to introduce such a
troubled times and prepare for what we hope will be a new ers in Ireland have no legal right to scheme. He told RTE: "This needs to
sick pay. Sick pay is at the discretion
post-pandemic era. of the employer to include or not in a
change and I am committed to intro‐
ducing a statutory sick pay scheme
contract of employment.
that works for employees and em‐
“As a result, up to half of the labour
ployers as quickly as possible.”
What does the platform offer? force, including hundreds of thou‐
sands of low‐paid essential workers, Bambrick said: “Our voluntary sys‐
l Access to 1000s of jobs, with new vacancies added daily. don’t receive sick pay and face being tem of sick pay isn’t working. Intro‐
ducing mandatory sick pay will be a
l Access to 100s of courses – worth more than €2000 – to help your CV to financially compelled to work when
lasting legacy of the pandemic and
unwell.”
stand out from the rest and give you the best chance of securing a job. ICTU Social Policy Officer, Dr Laura bring Ireland in to line with basic
l Unlimited access to the platform, its €2000+ worth of courses and jobs for Bambrick told Shopfloor: “Ensuring workers’ rights in the rest of Europe.”
workers are well at work is a basic The closing date for submissions to
any 6 additional users FREE of CHARGE. issue of safety and simply the right the consulation is December 18th.
thing to do. When workers are unwell Check out ICTU guide, titled The
they need to rest to recover. When State of Sick Pay in Ireland at
For further information please contact Jonathan Hogan at jhogan@mandate.ie sick workers stay home they reduce https://bit.ly/37gQTDC
or Amanda Blake at ablake@mandate.ie the spread of infection and the risk of l Dr Bambrick on sick pay – page 17
10 SHOPFLOOR y December 2020NEWS
Parliamentarians vow to Make Amazon Pay in letter to Bezos
FOLLOWING the launch of Make Amazon Pay, lock and Thomas Pringle. claim that Bezos and his firm, Amazon, have
401 legislators from 34 countries have written On Black Friday, 27th November a global “dodged and dismissed… debts to workers, so‐
to Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos backing the cam‐ movement was born to Make Amazon Pay. A cieties, and the planet.”
paign’s demands and pledging legislative action coalition of more than 50 organisations, includ‐ Addressing the billionaire directly, they urge
in a letter organised by initiative co‐convenors ing Progressive International and UNI Global him “to act decisively to change your policies
UNI Global Union and Progressive Interna‐ Union, alongside Greenpeace, Amazon Workers and priorities to do right by your workers, their
tional. International and the Tax Justice Network, pub‐ communities, and our planet.”
The signatories include global political fig‐ lished a list of 25 demands as workers and ac‐ And they vow: “We stand ready to act in our
ures such as US Congresswomen Ilhan Omar tivists led strikes, protests and stunts in 15 respective legislatures to support the move‐
and Rashida Tlaib, former UK Labour Party countries across five continents. ment that is growing around the world to Make
leader Jeremy Corbyn, French leftist leader Striking delivery drivers, call centre workers, Amazon Pay.” Progressive International’s Casper
Jean‐Luc Mélenchon, Greek progressive politi‐ garment workers, warehouse workers, trade Gelderblom added: “Our message should be
cian and commentator Yanis Varoufakis, as well unions, environmentalists, tax justice advocates ringing in Jeff Bezos’ ears: change is coming. But
as a slew of Irish TDs and senators, including – and social justice activists united with one com‐ if it isn’t already, we promise that this is just the
among others – Paul Murphy, Richard Boyd mon cause – to Make Amazon Pay. beginning.”
Barrett, Joan Collins, Mick Barry, Marie Sher‐ In the letter to Bezos, the parliamentarians Check out www.makeamazonpay.com
TRAINING FUND PACKAGE
Ex-Debenhams workers balloted
over Lab Court recommendation
THE GOVERNMENT is to set up a €3 and career support and business dispute. In the document, the Labour preferential creditors”.
million training, up‐skilling and busi‐ start‐ups was a recognition on the Court Chairman found that the 2016 The State had taken responsibility
ness start‐up fund to help former part of Government of this fact. collective agreement for enhanced re‐ for statutory redundancy payments
Debenhams workers who lost their He acknowledged that workers dundancy payments could no longer totalling more than €13m, with the
jobs when the UK‐based retailer’s might feel disappointed by the set of be applied legally, and that the cur‐ retailer having made no contribution
Irish operation went into liquidation proposals contained in the rent legal framework limited to those entitlements.
in April. three‐page document and the scope for the liquidators “I am now clear however that, de‐
This forms part of a recommenda‐ admitted that what was to make a contribution to spite extensive engagement and full
tion put forward by Labour Court on offer fell short of “the resolving the dispute. consideration, the principal preferen‐
Chairman Kevin Foley and follows ambitions of the former Terms tial creditors will not find it possible
months of engagement between the workers” and was “not to mandate the liquidators to do
workers and their union Mandate, He said: “I have not
reflective” of the contri‐ other than meet the requirements of
KPMG, and a number of government been able to establish
bution they had made to the relevant law.
agencies in a bid to resolve the dis‐ that the terms of that
the retailer to whom they “The result of that conclusion is
pute, now entering its eighth month, collective agreement
had given “such long ser‐ that the liquidation process cannot,
over enhanced redundancy pay‐ were intended to be appli‐
vice”. within the framework of relevant law,
ments. cable to redundancies occur‐
However, Foley said that hav‐ make any financial contribution to
The ex‐Debenhams workers are ring in 2020. In any event, it is clear
ing “engaged extensively” with all the resolution of this dispute,” he
being balloted on the proposals. that the agreement has no legal appli‐
parties, he was satisfied that what added.
It is understood the fund, which is cation in 2020.”
was on offer represented “the maxi‐ The extension of the liquidation,
to be administered by Solas, will run Foley noted that the main preferen‐
mum achievable in a very difficult sit‐ which had entailed additional costs,
for two years or until such a time as tial creditors in the liquidation were
uation.” He pointed out that he was had reduced further available assets
the monies have been fully put to use. the Department of Social Protection
also satisfied that both sides had en‐ and had “resulted in the depletion of
Emphasising what he termed were and the Revenue Commissioners –
tered the process in good faith and practically all cash resources in the
the “exceptional circumstances” faced owed approximately €18m – but that
that the recommendation contained business which at the outset ex‐
by ex‐Debenhams workers, Foley said “available resources are far out‐
the “optimum set of measures” which ceeded €4m”.
this money set aside for educational weighed by the debt owed to these
could be put in place to resolve the Labour Court Chair Kevin Foley
Do your
bit on the SHOPFLOOR!
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news@mandate.ie
December 2020 y SHOPFLOOR 11NEWS
Picture: Justin Pickard (CC BY-SA 2.0)
‘The picket line baby’
Welcome move as CETA IT’S OCTOBER 16th and Claire O’Leary (pictured
above left), some eight months into a pregnancy, is
Dáil vote is postponed
MANDATE has welcomed the postponement of country.”He pointed out that ratifying CETA
still doing her bit, standing with her ex‐Debenhams
colleagues braving the chill, late autumn weather on
the picket line in Patrick Street, Cork.
A month later, on November 17th, People Before
Profit TD Mick Barry (pictured right) stood in the
Dáil to speak during Leaders’ Questions. He said:
a Dáil vote on the Comprehensive Eco‐ would give foreign multinationals “Taoiseach, last Wednesday afternoon (November
nomic and Trade Agreement the right to sue national govern‐ 11th) at three minutes to 2pm, baby Grace O’Leary –
(CETA) until early 2021. ments in Europe for compensation six pounds, six ounces – was delivered at the Cork
The controversial free‐trade for the loss of expected future prof‐ Maternity University Hospital. Baby Grace is known
agreement between Canada its when government actions im‐ in Cork as ‘the picket line baby’.
and the European Union was pact on their profits. “Her mother, Claire, has been on
scheduled to be ratified in the Forbes said: “Multinationals al‐ strike for seven‐and‐a‐half months
Dáil after a 55‐minute debate on ready pay little to no taxes yet by now. Many people, myself in‐
Tuesday, December 15th but did ratifying CETA we will be giving cluded, feel that it is a major sign
not go ahead after serious con‐ them the legal right to sue Ireland
of foot dragging on the part of
cerns were raised by Green TDs, for any decisions taken by our gov‐
part of the governing coalition, ernment which might negatively your government that this
and most opposition TDs. impact on their future profits.” dispute is still not settled Claire, who worked in long‐lasting dispute this has
Reacting to the move, Mandate National Co‐ He added: “Full and proper parlia‐ after nearly the duration of a Patrick Street Debenhams for been.
ordinator Brian Forbes told Shopfloor: “This mentary scrutiny by both the Dáil full pregnancy. 10 years as a supervisor in “The situation is terrible.
is a welcome postponement – but an em‐ and Seanad is needed before any He added: “These workers the women’s accessories de‐ The girls can't be left out on
phatic no vote when it comes before the vote can be allowed on such a – overwhelmingly women – partment, told the Irish Daily the picket for much longer.
Dáil in January is the only response dangerous trade deal.” want to know if you intend to Mail, after Grace’s birth: "I And they've come so far they
any decent TD should have to this intervene to resolve the dis‐ found out I was pregnant just can’t back down now.
free trade arrangement. STOP CETA: ‘Sweetheart pute in time for them and before we lost our jobs. The "It's time the Government
“It really is just a sweetheart deal for big business’ their long‐suffering families fact that my baby will be born put its foot down. Talk is
deal for big business. It’s bad for to have a decent Christmas.” now really shows what a cheap, we need action now.”
workers and it’s bad for the Picture: Angula Berria (CC BY-SA 2.0)
What HAVE OUR
unions ever
done for us?
...ANNUAL LEAVE, PAY INCREASES, SICK LEAVE, LUNCH BREAKS,
SMOKE FREE WORKPLACE, BANDED HOUR CONTRACTS, REDUNDANCY PAY,
THE WEEKEND, HEALTH & SAFETY LAWS, UNFAIR DISMISSAL LEGISLATION,
MATERNITY & PARENTAL LEAVE AND MUCH, MUCH MORE...
Join YOUR union! www.joinmandate.ie
12 SHOPFLOOR y December 2020You can also read
