The work of the Supreme Court and High Court faces disruption from today because of a dispute about two clerical promotions in the courts service. Initial industrial action will be restricted to such areas as the issuing of summonses and bail applications, but it is likely to escalate rapidly. While both sides have declared themselves available for talks, there seems little basis for an early settlement.
The dispute is over how promotions to principal officer level are filled. Traditionally, promotions have been on the basis of seniority and suitability. Where the most senior court clerk is not considered suitable, the post normally goes to the next person in terms of seniority.
On this occasion the selection committee decided to abandon that system in favour of one based on competition. All 32 people in clerical and executive officer posts within the superior courts division can apply for the positions. The selection will be based on their written applications and performance at interview.
The selection committee, which comprises the three assistant general secretaries attached to the courts division, has the power to use an alternative selection procedure. However, IMPACT, the union representing staff, says that competitive interview has never been the basis for promotions within these grades.
The dispute arises as talks begin on plans to reform the courts service. One of the anomalies is that only the handful of staff recruited to the superior courts division, fewer than 40, can apply for the large number of promotional positions it contains.
A spokesman for the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform said the use of industrial action by IMPACT was "an extremely regrettable development". The Department was seeking a solution that was acceptable and honourable for all sides. In the meantime, the union should defer action and allow discussions to take place.
IMPACT's assistant general secretary, Mr Peter Nolan, said it was impossible to defer action. Members had already considered all the proposals available from the Department. "If there are further clarifications we are willing to sit down and discuss them at any time", he said.