MacManus pushes government to back Platform Workers’ rights in crucial EU talks

Midlands Northwest MEP Chris MacManus has called on the government to “do the right thing” and back the rights of platform workers, like Uber drivers and Deliveroo riders, in upcoming crucial EU talks.

MacManus said:

“Talks on a new law regarding the rights of workers in the platform economy are reaching  a crucial point and the Irish government’s position may be decisive in the negotiations .  To date, the Irish government has thrown its weight behind a watered-down position on the EU Platform Workers Directive. The EU Parliament has adopted a far more progressive position which is more likely to win out in critical “Trilogue” negotiations if was backed by the Irish government.”

“It is decision time- will Ireland stick up for vulnerable workers at the EU table?  In a recent EU Parliament vote on the issue the government MEPs were at sixes and sevens and voted completely incoherently.”

“The recent “Domino’s Pizza” ruling should stiffen the resolve of the government. The ruling, if legislated for would strengthen the rights of workers but that ruling will be made redundant if this new EU law is watered down. This weakened version of the directive will make it harder for workers to access rights around minimum wage, sick pay, holiday pay and social security access.”

“I am calling on Minister Coveney to do the right thing and for the State to be on the side of workers who operate in a dangerous environment rife with exploitation.” ENDS