OVER 100 State buildings in Dublin could become increasingly cold and draughty during the Irish presidency of the EU because of industrial action by a key group of staff in the Office of Public Works.
A dozen clerks of works responsible for electrical and heating maintenance are withdrawing their co-operation from maintenance programmes because there has been no progress on a long standing claim for extra staff and a better career structure.
The claim dates back to May 1995 when the electrical and heating section of the OPW was reorganised. Extra engineers were recruited and some engineering staff promoted.
IMPACT official Mr Kevin Callinan, who represents the clerks of works, says that no corresponding improvements have been offered to them. The OPW had not met the union to discuss the claim since June 1995.
"They seem to prefer to risk Ireland's reputation as a competent and responsible EU member state, rather than deal with what should be a relatively simple industrial relations matter," he said. Members had voted by II to one for the action, which has now commenced.
The clerks of works are responsible for supervising repairs on most Government buildings in the capital, excluding Dublin Castle. They are also responsible for repairs to a number of Garda stations.
Among the buildings that could be affected are Leinster House, the Department of Finance and the Department of the Taoiseach. The Government press centre, which will probably be used intensively by the international media during the presidency, is located in this complex.
