Cowen to deliver keynote address ahead of new talks
21 Apr 2008
Taoiseach-designate Brian Cowen, TD, is to deliver a keynote address at a major economic conference organised by the Irish Congress of Trade Unions, on Wednesday April 23.
Minister Cowen will deliver his address to the conference just 24 hours before new pay talks open between government, unions and employers. The talks are scheduled to formally open on Thursday, April 24. The conference will address the theme of Globalisation & Irish Workers and takes place in Croke Park, Dublin.
The Taoiseach-Designate's address to the conference will examine the impact of globalisation on Irish workers and how the Irish economy can best respond to the challenge.
Congress General Secretary David Begg - who will also speak at the conference - has welcomed Minister Cowen's decision to participate: "While the timing may be sensitive, in relation to the upcoming pay talks, I would warmly welcome the Taoiseach-Designate's presence and his decision to attend. I think it confirms the necessity for dialogue and engagement on the key challenges facing us in the years ahead."
Along with Minister Cowen, the conference will hear from a number of national and international experts: Professor Michael Best of the University of Massachusetts; Poul Nyrup Rasmussen, MEP, leader of the European Socialists and former Danish prime minister; Professor Frances Ruane, ESRI; John Evans, TUAC; Professor David Jacobson, DCU; Sue Longley, International Union of Food & Allied Workers; Jack O'Connor, SIPTU and David Begg, Congress.
Ends