High court decision on Catering JLC
The High court made a landmark ruling on 7th July in the constitutional challenge of John Grace and Quick Service Food Alliance Limited against The Catering Joint Labour Committee, The Labour Court, and the Attorney General.
The Catering JLC is a body established under the Industrial Relations Act 1946 and is responsible for formulating proposals for pay and conditions of workers employed in establishments engaged in the preparation or service of food or drink. The JLC proposals are submitted to the Labour Court, and, if approved, the Labour Court creates an Employment Regulation Order (ERO) which legally binds employers to wage rates and conditions of employment.
The High Court, in this case has ruled that the Joint Labour Committee system of setting wages for lower paid workers is unconstitutional.
Whilst the ruling may not affect existing workers employed in areas covered by the JLC system, depending on their contracts of employment, it is likely that employers will not be obliged to pay JLC rates for new employees recruited going forward.
It is important to note, that this does not entitle employers to reduce wage rates for their existing employees who have more favourable conditions in place. This can only be done by agreement. Please contact us if this affects you in any way, or for further information on the changes on 01 – 6127092 / info@adarehrm.ie.