Labour Court sets phased earnings protection for Waterford Crystal workers

The Labour Court recommended a phased return to piece-rate pay for Waterford Crystal Limited workers affected by changes to the blowing shops. The recommendation was signed on 21 December 1990. The Amalgamated Transport And General Workers' Union sought six months of earnings protection, arguing workers needed training to regain their former earnings. The company said its eight-week offer was adequate and the workers were qualified craftsmen. The Court set a lead-in week, followed by payments at 80% of master earnings in weeks two to four, 85% in weeks five to seven, 90% in weeks eight to 10 and 95% in weeks 11 and 12. Piece-rate work was to begin in week 13. Payments were to be scaled back if targets were missed.