SIPTU Disappointed with Sale of Bord Gáis Energy

The Union representing employees of Bord Gáis Energy has issued a statement saying that it is disappointed that the Government have decided to sell the profitable semi-state company to a consortium headed up by Centrica Plc. The union and workers heard of the deal in the media on Thursday 12th December.

It is expected that Bord Gáis Energy will be divided between the three companies with iCon infrastructure taking over Firmus Energy in Northern Ireland, Brookfield Renewables will take control of the wind power arm of the company and Centrica Plc will take over the retail division.

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. None of the companies involved in the bid have raised any issues in relation to these vital elements of the sale. The Bord Gáis Group of Unions will be meeting management in the coming days and will seek a meeting with the new owners at the earliest opportunity.”