The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) has written to the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, expressing disappointment that the final master agreement on the transfer of water services from local authorities to Uisce Éireann fails to take account of feedback provided by trade unions.

The master Agreement’ is an asset and business transfer process between Local Authorities and Uisce Éireann, designed to replace the service level agreement (SLA) which has been in place since the national water body was created, and unions had been invited to provide feedback on its content. Trade unions have been consulted on this framework but are not being requested to agree or otherwise.

In a letter to the Department last Wednesday (15th February), ICTU Industrial Officer Liam Bernie said that a number of the provisions set out in the agreement were an “unnecessary intrusion” by Uisce Éireann into the employment relationship between staff who wish to transfer, and their local authority. 

Concerns were also raised regarding the maintenance of staff files. “We are of the view that what is detailed could lead to significant breaches under General Data Protection Regulations,” he said.

Head of Local Government Richy Carrothers said that Fórsa’s priority continues to be the protection of workers in the local authority water services.

“You will be aware from the updates provided we had concerns over aspects of the draft master Agreement. The necessary changes have not been forthcoming, and Fórsa members working in local authority water services should continue with existing reporting relationships. We remain committed to the framework to protect our members,” he said.