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Statement by unions representing ESB workers - (AMICUS, ATGWU, ESBOA, SIPTU, TEEU and UCATT)

Date Released: 20 Mar 2007

ESB Group of Unions tell Government they will oppose break-up of company by whatever means are necessary

Six of the main unions in the ESB met today to discuss the Government white Paper on ‘Delivering a Sustainable Energy Future for Ireland’.  The meeting unanimously adopted the following resolution:-

“The proposals in the White Paper in relation to the break-up of ESB and the stripping of the company’s assets are impractical, contrary to good economic policy, not in the interest of customers, the national interest, security of supply or the staff.  As such, the proposals, if not altered, will be resisted by the staff of ESB through their Unions to prevent their implementation.  Meetings have been sought with ESB Management and the Government after which if the necessary changes are not made to the proposals, the Unions will initiate whatever action they deem necessary to prevent their implementation for the reasons outlined above.

It has been suggested by Government Spokespersons that the Government wish to engage with us on the staff shareholding in ESB.  In view of the fact that we are opposed to the break-up of ESB, we are not interested in such an engagement.”