Week 2 – siptulearn

Contitution or rule book: Every union is governed by a rulebook or constitution that defines its structure and aims. You can access SIPTU’s rulebook here: https://www.siptu.ie/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/RuleBook2019FA.pdf
Leadership: They are typically led by an executive council or committee elected by members.
Mergers and Federations: Unions may merge to increase resources and influence.
They also form federations, such as the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU), to collaborate on legislation and national negotiations.

European Level: Unions affiliate with bodies like the European Trade Union Confederation (ETUC), which represents over 45 million workers and acts as a social partner to the EU.
Global Impact: These affiliations help unions deal with the effects of globalisation and coordinate with international partners.

The growth of employer bodies was largely a response to the rising power of trade unions and the increasing complexity of labor legislation.

Core Objectives:

Political: Representing employer views to the government.

Economic: Supporting capitalism and protecting “managerial prerogative” in decision-making.

Industrial Relations: Ensuring a procedural environment that supports voluntary collective bargaining.

Bodies in Ireland: IBEC: The largest association, providing advisory and representation services at mediation and WRC hearings.

Construction Industry Federation (CIF): The second largest, focusing on industry-specific matters.

ISME: Represents the interests of small and medium-sized enterprises.

Research & Advisory: Providing legal, pay, and specialist consultancy.
Representation: Acting on behalf of members in workplace or national-level bargaining.
Collective Bargaining: Playing a major role in multi-employer bargaining at the industry or national level.