Fianna Fáil TD for Offaly Barry Cowen has welcomed the recommendations put forward by the Labour Relations Commission (LRC) in relation to the concerns raised by Bord na Móna workers regarding cost cutting measures being pursued by management.

Deputy Cowen made the comments after receiving information which shows that the LRC will vindicate the position of workers at the company.

“Workers at Bord na Móna have had serious concerns regarding the cost cutting measures being pursued by management since the beginning of this process. In particular they were extremely worried about the threat of compulsory redundancies alongside reduced working conditions upon redeployment within the company,” said Deputy Cowen.

“The workers have shown a high degree of flexibility throughout this process. They were willing to redeploy, take on additional responsibilities and carry out extra tasks. However the management wanted to proceed with compulsory redundancies and the introduction of new contracts which could result in pay cuts of up to 30%. The LRC were called in to mediate given the seriousness of the dispute.

“The LRC is now set to vindicate the position of the workers by recommending that no compulsory redundancies should take place arising from the closure of Anua. Furthermore the LRC has said that the same working conditions should apply to workers forced to redeploy within the company.

“I am glad to see that the LRC has arrived at these conclusions. Workers were very aggravated by the cost cutting proposals but this should help bring some closure to the process. I hope management now take on board the recommendations made by the LRC.”