The EU continues to implement a strong social policy agenda - Brian Crowley MEP

Posted on 11/08/09 by Brian Crowley Brian Crowley MEP for the constituency of South today said that " the Lisbon Treaty is to the forefront in protecting the rights of workers and in advancing a strong social policy agenda."
Brian Crowley MEP said that " If someone is in favour of strengthening the rights of workers, then a Yes Vote for the Lisbon Treaty on October 2nd next is the right step to take.
The EU Charter of Fundamental Rights contains many protections for the rights of workers including having a right to information and consultation with employers, a right to collective bargaining, protection in the event of unfair dismissal, a right to fair working conditions, a prohibition on child labour and the protection of young people at work.
The EU Charter of Fundamental Rights is fully supported by E.T.U.C. which is the European Trade Union Confederation and is the umbrella body for the Trade Union movement from the 27 member states of the EU.
Many people speak of Europe in terms of the initiatives that the EU has pursued in the political and economic spheres.
But the European Union, through consecutive treaties, has promoted a very strong social policy agenda by implementing new laws which promote equality in the workplace, better working conditions and higher safety standards in the workplace.
In Ireland, we have a strong body of employment rights' legislation. One can point to the National Minimum Wage Act and to the Registered Employment Agreements and Employment Regulation Orders to prove this argument.
The new Employment Law Compliance Bill will increase the penalties for employers who seek to gain advantage by denying employees their entitlements under Irish and EU employment laws.
Opponents of the Lisbon Treaty argue that the Laval case in Sweden could have an affect in Ireland. This simply could not be the case because Ireland has a minimum wage structure in place, whereas Sweden does not.
Posted workers in our country have the same rights as Irish workers under Irish laws. "
Brian Crowley MEP concluded that " it is vitally important that the European Union continues to promote strong social policies. The Lisbon Treaty and the European Charter of Fundamental Rights achieves this very purpose."