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The ASTI conducted a ballot for industrial action in October 2020 - Leaving Cert Business - Question 4 (A) - 2021
Question 4 (A)
The ASTI conducted a ballot for industrial action in October 2020. (A) (i) Outline two causes of industrial relations disputes. (ii) Discuss two types of official... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The ASTI conducted a ballot for industrial action in October 2020 - Leaving Cert Business - Question 4 (A) - 2021
Step 1
Outline two causes of industrial relations disputes.
Answer
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Pay/Disputes over Pay: Workers may initiate industrial relations disputes due to disagreements over their pay or pension claims. This can arise from factors like the cost of living claims, comparability claims, or claims regarding pay relativity. If an employer fails to accept or rejects these claims, it can lead to significant disputes.
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Disputes over Working Conditions: Safety and working conditions are crucial for employees. Poor management practices that fail to maintain safe working environments can escalate into disputes. Additionally, changes in working conditions, such as faulty equipment or inadequate facilities, can lead to friction between employees and management.
Step 2
Discuss two types of official industrial action available to employees involved in an industrial dispute with their employer.
Answer
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Official Strike: In this scenario, employees refuse to enter the workplace or perform their duties. An official strike involves a thorough process that includes a secret ballot, proper notification to the employer, and a sanction from the ICTU (Irish Congress of Trade Unions). Union members who participate in the strike typically hold picket lines outside the workplace to express their dissent.
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Overtime Ban: Employees may opt to refuse to work extra hours beyond their contracted duties. This can severely disrupt business operations, causing potential financial losses, especially in industries where overtime is critical, such as in airlines during peak travel times. By imposing an overtime ban, workers can exert pressure on their employer without halting work entirely.