Bord Gáis Group of Unions representatives met with Bord Gáis Energy at the Labour Relations Commission (LRC), to discuss the details of the transfer of workers when the company moves into private ownership.

SIPTU Organiser and Secretary of the Bord Gáis Group of Unions, Oliver McDonagh, said: "Workers are extremely disappointed to see the sale back on after hopes had been raised that the company would remain in public ownership. However, management and the Government have assured union representatives that the workers’ terms and conditions of employment are protected under the Transfer of Undertakings Protection of Employees Act 2003. Assurances have also been given in relation to the creation of a Defined Benefit Pension Scheme for the workers.

-- Advertisement --

"None of the companies involved in the bid have raised any issues in relation to these vital elements of the sale."

He added: "Assuming that a Shared Purchase Agreement is signed, Bord Gáis Energy will be divided into three companies. Firmus Energy, which is based in Northern Ireland, will be taken over by iCON infrastructure; Brookfield Renewables will own the wind power arm of the company, with Centrica Plc taking over the company's retail division."

(CD/IT)