Collective bargaining in Ireland has evolved considerably in recent years. It encompasses not only pay and conditions of employment but also budgetary policy, social investment, taxation, participation, health, education and training and all issues which influence workers' living standards. Through a series of national agreements, the bargaining system has become part of an economic planning process at national level involving trade unions, employers, government and the community and voluntary sector. Increasingly there is a growing focus on the individual enterprise and the individual sectors of the economy.

In the current era of collective bargaining, trade unionists can have no stronger weapon than a solid business education, to back up their own claims and argue effectively against proposals that could adversely affect workers' rights, SIPTU's aim in producing this book is to provide a basic grounding in business studies for trade unionists and workers interested in protecting their rights. Section One looks at the phenomenon of the Celtic Tiger. and discusses some of the economic factors that have put Ireland where it is globally. Section Two examines company finances and the world of accounting. Section Three explores the different forms of compensation and work practices common in Irish firms today and questions the methods that firms use to increase profits.

Published by Oak Tree Press in association with SIPTU, 2001

Standard Price: €7.50    Special Price to SIPTU Members: €5

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