Semi-states ponder workplace return
by Mehak Dugal
 
The head of Fórsa’s Services and Enterprises Division Angela Kirk said “We are actively engaging with employers in the sector to discuss local arrangements on returning to work in line with the national protocol.”
The head of Fórsa’s Services and Enterprises Division Angela Kirk said “We are actively engaging with employers in the sector to discuss local arrangements on returning to work in line with the national protocol.”

Fórsa has raised concerns about the selection of employee Covid-19 safety representatives, as many staff in semi-state organisations prepare to return to workplaces over the coming weeks.


The appointment of the safety representative is one of the safeguards set out in a ‘return to work safety protocol,’ negotiated by unions, employers and the Government.

 

The protocol outlines the steps that employers and workers must take to ensure a safe workplace as staff return when coronavirus-related restrictions are relaxed in the coming weeks and months.

 

The head of Fórsa’s Services and Enterprises Division Angela Kirk said unions must be involved in the selection and appointment of the reps so that workers can have confidence that they will be well protected from the virus.

 

She said the issue was being managed by union officials and branches in each of organisations. There have been discussions in a range of semi-states including the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Transport Authority, Safefood, Teagasc, An Post and Road Safety Authority. Most are establishing groups to look at the return protocols.


“We are actively engaging with employers in the sector to discuss local arrangements on returning to work in line with the national protocol,” she said.


Angela said remote working was likely to continue in most agencies for the time being, with staff in the majority expected to start returning to workplaces from 10th August under ‘phase 5’ of the Government’s ‘roadmap for reopening society and business.’


However, An Bord Pleanàla wants to start bringing people back incrementally before that date.

 

The return to work safety protocol was recently agreed between the Government, unions, and employer representatives through a tripartite body called the Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF). Fórsa general secretary Kevin Callinan is one of four union reps on the LEEF.

 

It requires employers to implement a number of measures in advance of staff returning to workplaces. These include appointing Covid-19 workplace representatives, preparing information and training for staff, taking steps to underpin social distancing, cleaning and sanitising premises, and assessing the need for personal protective equipment (PPE).

 

Read Fórsa’s members’ guide to returning to work HERE

 

It’s never been more important – or more easy – to get the protections and benefits of union membership. Join Fórsa HERE or contact us HERE.

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