Trade Unions and Trade disputes

Question 1

What is a trade union?

Answer 1

A trade union is an organisation that aims to protect and improve the pay and working conditions of its members.

Question 2

Example of a trade union:

Answer 2

SIPTU- Services, Industrial, Professional and Technical Union.

Question 3

What is a shop steward?

Answer 3

The shop steward is elected by trade union members in a workplace and acts as the union’s representitive in that workplace.

Question 4

What are the duties of a shop steward?

Answer 4

• To provide feedback to the union on the views of union members
• Giving advice and support to members on workplace issues, e.g. sick leave
• Helping resolve issues between employees and management

Question 5

What are the 3 benefits of trade union memberships for employEES?

Answer 5

1. Protects Employment Rights
2. Information and support
3. Better pay and working conditions

Question 6

1. Protects Employement Rights

Answer 6

It makes employees aware of their rights in the workplace. e.g working conditions

Question 7

2. Information and support

Answer 7

Provides information and support to members on issues such as pay and leave entitlements

Question 8

3. Better Pay and Working conditions

Answer 8

The trade union negotiates with management on behalf of the staff to gain better pay and working conditions e.g. increase in basic pay

Question 9

National Level

Answer 9

The union can increase awarness of employees’ concerns by providing information to media. e.g. on problems with health and safety in the workplace.

Question 10

What are the 3 Benefits of Trade Union Membership for employERS?

Answer 10

1. Faster Negotiations
2. Introducing change
3. Improved Health and safety

Question 11

1. Faster Negotiations

Answer 11

It is faster for employers to negotiate with the shop steward, rather than with individuals or groups of employees. saves the business time and money.

Question 12

2. Introducing Change

Answer 12

It can be easier for the employer to introduce change. e.g. New technology, the shop steward can explain to the employees why the changes are needed.

Question 13

3. Improved Health and Safety

Answer 13

Employees inform the shop steward of health and safety issues in the workplace. This info can be passed to management and can help to improve health and safety at the firm.

Question 14

What does ICTU stand for?

Answer 14

Irish Congress of Trade Unions

Question 15

What does ICTU aim to do?

Answer 15

-Provide training and info to trade unions and their members
- Help resolve disputes between unions and employers.

Question 16

What are trade disputes?

Answer 16

A dispute between employers and employees in connection with employment or non-employment or the terms and conditions of employment or in any way affecting the employment of any person.