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2007

Poland's Opposition Leader to visit Dublin

Date Released: 24 Sep 2007

Donald Tusk, leader of Poland’s main opposition party Civic Platform - Platforma Obywatelska, (PO) - Donald Tusk has been invited to meet Polish workers in Ireland.

SIPTU Campaigns’ Organiser, Anne Speed said “we hope that by inviting Mr. Tusk to Liberty Hall, he will get to hear at first hand the stories of Polish workers in Ireland – many of whom are being exploited by unscrupulous employers.  SIPTU is continuously campaigning for improved labour standards and encourages Polish – and other migrant workers - to join trade unions to protect their rights.

“We are particularly disappointed that unlike Poland, the Republic of Ireland is one of only three countries in the EU which has failed to provide legislation for the equal treatment of agency workers in pay and conditions and employment status,” she said.

SIPTU has offered Mr. Tusk the facilities of its Liberty Hall centre on Saturday, September 29 between 7 – 10.30pm where he will address Polish workers

One of the consequences of the emigration of young Polish workers to Ireland and the UK has been a major skills shortage in Poland with the result that major infrastructural projects are not proceeding in a timely manner – thus severally handicapping the economic and social development of the country.

With an election in Poland on October 21, 2007, the labour shortage, - which threatens to stall the country's strong economic performance - is becoming a key issue.  





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