Labour Court sets aside three-hours' pay recommendation in Midlands Clothing dispute

In 1986, the Labour Court set aside a Rights Commissioner's recommendation for three hours' pay to workers at Midland Clothing Company Limited after an unexpected lay-off. The decision was signed on 4 November 1986. A motor broke down on 7 May, and workers were told they were not required the next day. The Irish Transport and General Workers' Union (Itgwu) argued they had not received adequate notice. The company relied on clause 15.1 of its agreement with the union and offered workers the chance to make up the lost time. The Court found that the clause provided for no wage payments in the circumstances and that the offer was reasonable.