Group of Unions met with senior management following announcement - PTSB

Following the announcement earlier this week, the Group of Unions met with senior management yesterday and received a briefing on the 14th April’s news. It was a constructive engagement and covered off the core points that were highlighted on the 14th April in terms of next steps and timelines.

However, the Group of Unions expressed our serious concerns about the future of jobs, services and members’ terms and conditions of employment. So far, the assurances in the 2.7 announcement, 2.10 letter and FAQs provided to staff on 14th April need to be strengthened. In particular, we noted our concerns about the proposed ‘detailed review’ of the bank by BAWAG, the ‘synergies’ it is suggesting it can create and that we require a stronger commitment than a ‘meaningful’ branch presence.

It is fair to say the Unions are extremely concerned and have sought concrete guarantees on the protection of jobs, branches and terms and conditions of employment. We have sought direct engagement with BAWAG at the earliest appropriate time and will continue to engage with PTSB management to try best secure your futures. All these concerns will be included in the Group of Unions Submission in respect of the sale.

We will hold an online members’ meeting next week to discuss this situation further before deciding on next steps. Please continue to encourage all colleagues to join the union so that you have the strongest possible voice with the Bank, BAWAG, politicians and shareholders.

The 3 Unions are now finalising our Group of Unions submission that will accompany the Shareholder Circular, which will be communicated to all staff and shareholders.

Dr. Gareth Murphy

Head of Industrial Relations and Campaigns