Tony Killeen (Clare, Fianna Fail)

Section 12 states:

When defining or implementing practical arrangements for information and consultation under this Act, the employer and one or more employees or his or her representatives (or both) shall work in a spirit of co-operation, having due regard to their reciprocal rights and duties, and taking into account the interests both of the undertaking and of the employees.

It is not unreasonable to state it is somewhat aspirational. However, it is fair to point out that various aspects of the legislation provide for matters to be referred to the Labour Court. I proposed a new provision which we have not discussed yet, which provides that when internal systems to resolve issues have been exhausted, the Labour Court may involve the LRC prior to making a determination. That moves it from being aspirational to being more practical in terms of achieving an agreed outcome.