Trade union condemns use of alcohol and drug tests

Connect Trade Union says it condemns the use of alcohol and drug tests to victimise workers struggling with addiction, warning that some employers are using testing to dismiss staff while failing to provide appropriate welfare support.

Speaking at the union’s Biennial Delegate Conference in Kilkenny on Saturday (17th) Connect General Secretary Designate, Brian Nolan, said: “Some employers are using these tests as a stick to beat workers.

“Many employers do not have the necessary worker welfare programmes or other ways of helping people struggling with addiction.

“Where a test is used as a reason to sack a person instead of assisting them through an appropriate welfare programme, it will be opposed by Connect Trade Union and serious questions asked about the employer’s commitment to worker wellbeing.

“Protecting workplace safety is essential. That requires employers to work with unions on policies which address risks and provide workers with access to appropriate support.”

A conference motion passed unanimously committed the union to opposing the arbitrary introduction of alcohol and intoxicant testing without agreement and called for campaigns to improve workers’ health and wellbeing.

Connect activist John Brennan said: “Ensuring the health and safety of workers is a priority for all our members.

Connect is already working with employer organisations to promote awareness of worker wellbeing.

“However, attempts to impose mandatory testing without agreement, while failing to provide basic protections such as sick pay, death-in-service benefits and health screening, must be rejected.

“Bogus self-employment can also leave workers without the PRSI entitlements they should have.”

The Health and Safety Authority states that testing requirements may arise through contractual agreements, while separate statutory provisions apply in sectors such as rail. Workers remain legally obliged not to be under the influence to an extent that endangers themselves or others.

Employers must also comply with data protection requirements when processing health information.

Brennan added: “Connect must challenge arbitrary testing without union agreement and campaign with the relevant stakeholders for measures that protect the health, safety and wellbeing of all our members.”