Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael can’t be trusted on workers’ rights – MacManus

Sinn Féin MEP for the Midlands Northwest Chris MacManus has said that Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael cannot be trusted on workers’ rights and their record in Brussels is questionable to say the least. He cited votes cast by Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael MEPs to weaken important workers’ rights legislation in crucial votes in the European Parliament.

MacManus said:

“Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael cannot be trusted on workers’ rights and their record in Brussels is questionable to say the least.

“In a vote called by right wing forces, Fine Gael’s Seán Kelly voted to weaken a strong EU Parliament position protecting platform workers. This legislation protected in particular those working in the “gig” economy, like many delivery riders. By siding with the right in trying to re-open this position, Fine Gael let down some of the most exploited workers in our society. The other Fine Gael MEPs should also give their reasons for their absence during the vote.

“Likewise, Fianna Fáil’s two MEPs loyally supported the extreme position of their political group in trying to weaken a strong pro-worker resolution on the European Works Council. These amendments, had they been successful, would have drastically weakened the resolution. Post-Brexit, many multinationals have shifted their Works Council to Ireland. This has caused concern as the Commission is investigating Ireland’s implementation of the rules. 

“For Fianna Fáil to support a dilution of the Parliament position is an attack on those working to hold the Irish government to account on workers’ rights. 

“Fortunately, in both cases the progressive position won out but with no thanks to the Irish MEPs of Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael. Only Sinn Féin can be trusted to protect and advance workers’ rights.” ENDS