We are a trade union whose origins go back to the first labour pioneers, who came together to protect workers from exploitation and in the process improve their pay, working conditions, safety and opportunities for learning.
The Connect Trade Union is the largest Engineering Union in Ireland and the second largest in manufacturing representing up to 40,000 workers. One of our founding principles is the organisation of workers into collective agreements with employers rather than workers being bound by individual contract of employment. The Connect Trade Union is not affiliated to any political party but seeks to advance the political agenda to benefit the welfare of its members and wider society. It does this through its own campaigns, giving active support to those of ICTU and lending support to civil society campaigns in line with current union policy. The union also seeks to build links with like-minded unions abroad in order to foster exchanges of information in support of our activities.
Connect Trade Union Solidarity Links Across the Globe.
The Connect Trade Union has moved from being regarded as a small craft union to a significant force not only in UA Pic January 2015 Ireland but across the globe. Our contribution to international affairs and the influence that we have brought to bear on such issues as the apprenticeship system at home and across Europe is well recognised. We have associations with the Global Power Trade Unions (Electrical) and the United Association already established in the US, Canada, Australia. Pictured across is General Secretary Eamon Devoy shaking hands with UA General President William P. Hite in the Irish Embassy in Boston.
Full details available in our news section. The Union is now on a steady course of being a well-respected force that defends and improves the lives of our members and their families.
Who Do We Represent ?
Connect Trade Union membership is open to all categories of workers in technical, engineering and electrical employment’s. Membership for Apprentices is free.