Labour Court recommends union safeguards at Berger Paints, rejects sick-pay claim

In 1987, the Labour Court recommended union representation safeguards in disciplinary and driving-disqualification procedures at Berger Paints Ireland Limited. It did not recommend conceding the Sales Marketing and Administrative Union of Ireland's claim for increased sick pay. The recommendation was signed on 5 February 1987. The dispute concerned conditions for 12 sales representatives. The Court recommended that employees could be accompanied by a shop steward during disciplinary procedures and by a shop steward or union official on appeal; it said a similar provision might be included for driving qualifications. It also recommended introducing an income continuance scheme as soon as possible after all four unions agreed the proposed conditions. The Court made no separate recommendation on the request to keep workers on long-term illness on the payroll.