Non-union workplaces in Ireland are being urged to prepare for new European rules on consulting workers and collective bargaining.

The warning was issued by CIPD which is the professional body for HR and learning and development in Ireland.

Their survey found two thirds (65%) of non-union organisations say they do not intend to engage with unions for collective bargaining.

And over one third (36%) do not intend to have an information and consultation forum to facilitate this kind of communication in 2025

CIPD Director Mary Connaughton says organisations need to ensure they have measures in place to deal with consulting their workers ahead of the introduction of new rules: 

“Under the EU Directive on Adequate Minimum Wages, member states with less than 80% trade union coverage - such as Ireland - must take steps to promote collective bargaining.

"It’s a matter of time before some measures like the consultation forum in place at just 13% of our respondents are a requirement.

"We would encourage non-union workplaces to get ahead of that point and expand their efforts to communicate with workers effectively on important issues “. 

The Industrial Relations News (IRN) Annual Pay and Employment Practices Survey also found more than half (58%) of businesses are planning a basic pay increase in 2025. 

The average planned pay increase for 2025 stands at 3.66%, down from the 4.24% paid last year.

According to the survey 19% of employers are planning to maintain current pay rates, while 22% are undecided.

Meanwhile, 25% of employers are planning to increase non-pay benefits this year while 66% of employers are planning to award bonuses this year.

As part of the feedback 46% of employers say they plan to put more focus on creating an inclusive culture - down from 58% last year.

However, the CIPD flagged the fact only 60% of workplaces have a policy granting leave to support victims of domestic abuse, despite it being a legal requirement.

Mary Connaughton said it was disappointing that more organisations haven’t implemented the system on domestic abuse support.

“It’s well over a year since this legislation took effect and workplaces of all sizes have no excuse not to have it in place - both to protect their existing employees and demonstrate to potential recruits that they are a supportive and progressive organisation," she said.

Photo: CIPD Director Mary Connaughton. photographer Paul Sherwood