5th November 2025
New strategy aims to boost fairness, productivity and sustainable economic growth through enhanced social dialogue
The Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, Peter Burke, today announced the launch of Ireland’s Action Plan to Promote Collective Bargaining 2026–2030, a comprehensive strategy designed to reinforce Ireland’s long-standing system of voluntary industrial relations. The plan introduces practical measures to empower, promote, and protect collective bargaining, ensuring workplaces remain fair, productive, and resilient.
Developed in close collaboration with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) and Ibec, this initiative delivers on a key Programme for Government commitment and aligns with EU Directive Article 4 on Adequate Minimum Wages. The plan sets out over 20 actions across five strategic pillars, including:
- Understanding Impact – Closing data gaps through targeted research to measure the economic and social benefits of collective bargaining.
- Empowering and Encouraging – Capacity-building programmes, funding for productivity-enhancing agreements, and recognition of best practices.
- Promoting – Public awareness campaigns, a new Code of Practice, and exploration of tax incentives to support union membership.
- Protecting – Legislative reviews to safeguard workers’ rights and strengthen protections for trade union representatives.
- Supporting Institutions – Investment in digitalisation, enhanced dispute resolution, and modernisation of the Workplace Relations Commission and Labour Court.
The Taoiseach, Micheál Martin, said:
“Collective bargaining is a cornerstone of trust and fairness in the workplace. This Action Plan strengthens our voluntarist tradition, fosters constructive dialogue, and ensures Ireland remains a leader in social cohesion and competitiveness. I welcome this agreement between Government and social partners as a testament to the value of ongoing engagement under the Labour Employer Economic Forum.”
Minister Burke added:
“This plan represents a balanced, forward-looking approach to industrial relations. By investing in skills and deepening social dialogue, we are ensuring collective bargaining continues to support decent work, competitiveness, and sustainable growth. I thank ICTU and Ibec for their partnership and look forward to delivering this plan for the benefit of workers and employers alike.”
Minister of State for Employment, Small Business and Retail, Alan Dillon, commented:
“Collective bargaining is about more than negotiations—it’s about fairness, reducing inequality, and building trust. This plan reaffirms Ireland’s commitment to constructive social dialogue and to creating workplaces that are resilient and equitable in a changing world of work.”
For more information: Ireland’s Action Plan to Promote Collective Bargaining 2026–2030
ENDS
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