Sir, - In our second-level schools, teachers encourage students to respect themselves, their peers and the wider community and to develop a sense of social responsibility. When students enter the world of work, they are expected to do their best for their employers. In return, it is only right that employers respect the wishes of their workers. Respect for workers' wishes to have the opportunity to be represented by a trade union is a litmus test of an employer's willingness to afford workers the respect to which they are entitled.
The Communications Workers Union has indicated to us that it is being denied the opportunity to represent workers employed by Esat Digifone, a company in which the sponsor of the Young Scientists Exhibition, Esat Telecom, is a major shareholder. As the union representing 16,000 second-level teachers, it is only right that we draw the attention of our members to this position.
Esat is a successful Irish company. It is successful because it is supported by Irish people, especially by Irish workers who deliver the quality of service which makes its services attractive to the Irish consumer. These same workers are denied a fundamental right by the refusal of their company to recognise the union representing workers in the telecommunications sector. The right to associate is a constitutional right. The right of workers to organise in a union and to have it represent them is a fundamental right, recognised and respected in civilised countries.
It would be instructive for students to hear the sponsor involved explain its position on trade union representation for its workers. Why are workers being denied the opportunity to be represented by the union of their choice?
The Young Scientists Exhibition is a showcase for students. It attracts large support from students, teachers and parents in second-level schools across the country. "Glittering prizes" must not be allowed to mask the injustice and inequity involved in refusing workers the opportunity to be represented by a trade union. There is an important lesson in social responsibility and solidarity for students in examining the issues involved.
Our recommendation to teachers not to be associated with the Young Scientists Exhibition while it is sponsored by Esat should be considered in that context. We recognise that out of a sense of professional commitment to their students, many teachers will continue to facilitate this year's exhibition but they will be disinclined to be involved next year. This provides an opportunity for Esat Telecom to afford its workers the respect they deserve and allow them the opportunity to be represented by the trade union of their choice. - Yours, etc., Charlie Lennon,
General Secretary, ASTI, Winetavern Street, Dublin 8.