Dear Colleagues 

I participated in a short meeting of the Labour Market Stakeholders Group (LMSG) this morning, together with a representative of IBEC, the CIF and Chambers Ireland.  The Taoiseach, the Minister for Finance and the Minister for DBEI also participated.

The meeting agreed the following:

1. That public health advice would determine when the process of rebooting the economy would begin.
2. That the LMSG would engage in continuous dialogue with Government representatives on the planning of this economic reboot. It is expected that such dialogue would be initiated over the next ten days.
3. The current anomalies relating to the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme, for those at low and middle income, are being considered by the Minister for Finance. It is expected that some outcome may be forthcoming in the next few days.
4. Congress raised issues relating to employer non-compliance with current public health provisions in workplaces, such as social distancing etc.  Congress suggested that the Health & Safety Authority should have their powers extended, at least temporarily, to enable these matters to be dealt with in a satisfactory manner.  This proposition is now receiving consideration.

I hope everyone is keeping well and safe.  I will continue to keep you updated on any matters as they arise.

Regards

Patricia King

GENERAL SECRETARY

ICTU