Labour Court declines union claim for packing-line compensation

In 1988, the Labour Court did not recommend conceding Irish Transport And General Workers' Union's claim against Unidare Limited for compensation for ten workers affected by packing-line changes. The recommendation was signed on 1 March 1988. Oerlikon Electrodes (Ireland) Limited, part of the Unidare Group, introduced new machinery in November 1985, reducing staffing from twelve to ten, with six expected in future. The company had paid £61 to each affected worker; the union sought £2,500 per person. The union argued the changes increased productivity and flexibility demands. The company said rationalisation was needed to remain viable and workers had not been adversely affected.