Ireland continues to play a prominent role internationally in the important arena of labour law
13th June 2017
Minister for Employment and Small Business today(13th June, 2017) announced that Ireland has been elected to the Government Body of the International Labour Organisation (ILO) as a full member in Geneva for a three year term. It is the first time Ireland has been a full member of the Governing Body of the ILO since joining the Organisation in 1923.
The ILO is a United Nations Agency and the only tripartite UN agency. It brings together governments, employers and workers, representing 187 member states across the globe. Its aim is to set labour standards, develop policies and devise programmes promoting decent work for all. The ILO gives an equal voice to workers, employers and governments to ensure that the views of the social partners are closely reflected in labour standards and in shaping policies and programmes.
Welcoming the historic news, Minister for Employment and Small Business, Pat Breen T.D., said “This is an important opportunity for Ireland and Ireland’s election as a full member of the Governing Body of the ILO for the first time shows the high esteem in which Ireland is held internationally. The strong relationship we have with our Social Partners will be fundamental to our ability to play an active role on the Governing Body, during what will be an ambitious period in the ILO as it approaches its centenary year of 2019. The occasion of the ILO Centenary is being marked by the implementation of a range of initiatives, including on the Future of Work, End to Poverty and Women at Work. Having the ability to influence and lead in this forum will ensure that Ireland continues to play a prominent role internationally in the important arena of labour law.”
Ireland’s three year term on the Governing Body will commence on 17th June.
ENDS
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