IBOA Meets EU Close to Breaking Point: Work-Related Stress Bad for You …And Your Commission Employer! • Play Safe! Work Safe! 13 14-15 16-17

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2010 Imagine… if he had lived – John Lennon would have been 70 in October

MCR: major Growing anxiety as crucial reform job losses mount infra: red

SHORTCUTS NEWSFOCUS Dead President deal at No more Mr. Nice Guy – Morgan Stanley • Bonus tighter regulation for culture over, says US pay financial institutions in czar • Going Going the Republic. NEWSFOCUS CULTURESHIFT Gone – ¤500 note from Bankers to have to take the pledge? Hippocratic oath The push for sales is circulation in UK for finance staff proposed by British commission unrelenting: it’s time to push back! 4-5 6 7-8 9-12

EUROSPECT SAFETY SAFETY EU pursuing greater FEATURE FEATURE banking regulation • Too much overtime is IBOA meets EU Close to Breaking Point: Work-Related Stress bad for you …and your Commission employer! • Play safe! Work safe! 13 14-15 16-17

IBOA NEWS HOUSECALLS UNIONNEWS UNIONNEWS Union gives broad Prez to Sec: ICTU post Absolutely intolerable: Saving Banks Campaign: Union wants secure future welcome for banking for IBOA leader • History targetting of bank staff in

www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk for First Trust Bank and Aliied Irish Bank (GB). inspectors’ reports in the Making: IBOA’s hostage raids colourful past

18 19 20 21 The QuarTerly Magazine froM iBoa – The finance union IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION 2 SPECTRUM september 2010 infra: red

EUNION WORKPLACE WORKPLACE WORKPLACE WORKPLACE Online exclusive: new section on IBOA website NEWS NEWS NEWS NEWS for members only Concerns over restructure Ulster Bank seeks to New share dealing policy Talks on job security, pay at NIB • NIB in deal with extend opening hours • proposed• AIB should proceed at BOI • An Post • Northern Bank Legal cases against Ulster rethink future plans • Members accept media- productivity talks continue Bank continue Contractual pay claim tor’s pension proposals 23 24 25 26-27 28

WORKPLACE WORKLIFE LIFESTYLE MUSIC SCREEN Planning for retirement NEWS Tantalising Tentations: MAESTRO SAVIOUR Concern for jobs at HP as 10 best self tanning Neil’s divine discontent The Party’s Ogre BOI declines to renew IT products contract

29 30 31 32 33 UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE

Spectrum is published by IBOA – The Finance Union, IBOA House, Stephen Street Upper, Dublin 8 and 29, Malone Road, Belfast. BT9 6RU. Telephone: 00353-1-4755908 and 0044-28-90200130

SPORTSLIFE BETTERREAD IBOAQUIZZES [email protected] www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie The Cup that Cheers: Beating the Recession Prize crossword• General Secretary: Larry Broderick George Hamilton reports by the Book • Sudoku challenge Honorary Secretary: Tommy Kennedy from South Africa Soccernomics Communications Manager: Séamas Sheils ULTRAVIOLET Advertising enquiries to Anna O’Doherty or The invisible hand of Louise O’Donnell in IBOA House. democracy • More false profits? Spectrum is printed on recycled paper and wrapped for posting in oxy-degradable poly - 34-35 36 37-38 thene at W & G Baird, Antrim, Northern Ireland.

Cover Photo: IBOA meets the First Minister and Deputy First Minister in Northern Ireland. Photo: Kevin Cooper/Photoline. SPECTRUM 3 september 2010 4 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk Bank? Financial Regulator Central or institution duly recognised by a international domain which could'.net'. existing ones to addlike to top-level domains '.com', '.org' andon a new initiative to allow more identify net fraud. whichleft them open to inter- intoforwarding vital enoughinformation to dupe sophisticated many were examples recipients andobvious, some of the later this scam spam was fairly crude fidential information. elicit bank account oneorpretext otheror another, con- tries to financial institutioncation which, claiming underto come fromreceived a at least one communi-an e-mail account who has not personhardlywithThereais scammers? to beat spam domain name up .bank Why not set short: only be registered to a financial (ICANN), is currently consulting regulating varioustheglobal bodychargedaspects with of web rogue communications! AssignedNames and Numbers use has the will to act. Why not create '.bank' as an Ifonly there wasway a to Although initially of most The Internet Corporation for Wellthere could ifthe be – september 2010 september SPECTRUM bonafide e-mailsfrom cuts seek even more job cuts UK’s State-backed banks to almost 27,000. appointment as Chief Executive Stephen Hester’s since lost jobs ofnumber two years ago declaredmontha £1.1bn earlier. of profits annualThis takes ofthe total spite in came forced sale of 318 of its back-office 3,500 axe following branches jobs to the to Santander case of RBS and 41% in Lloyds/HBOS.arestill part-owned bythe State (84% inthe institutionswere rescued by public eventhoughfunds boththeseofalmost and45,000 – groups, RBS and Lloyds/HBOS,orscheduled to behas cut by two nowmajor bankingreached Thetotal number of jobs in Britain already cut The recent announcement by RBS that it is or accessorymobile for IBOA members 10% discount on any mobile phone* in the of Republic Ireland. *except the Apple i-Phone the market,” according to Hester.neededtoensure is “the loveproper toughfunctioning This packages.of rescue ment should be allowed to collapsesays withoutthat in future govern-failing financial institutions Meanwhile RBS Chief Executive,Pulling the Stephenladder up afterHester, him who were facilitating toHalifax close 265customer agencies business. a staffedfurther 1,000 by jobsnon-employees are at sincerisk it aswas Lloydsrescued movesby the taxpayer. tototaldirectofIndirectly joblosses almost to 18,000 redundancies at Lloyds/HBOS,which brought its The latest RBS cuts followed a further 1,850 short: cuts

Public “afraid of banks”

Many people in debt are very afraid of the banks, a group of independent financial advisers told an Oireachtas Committee earlier this month. The Future Group also pointed out that the State's Money and Budgeting Advice Service (MABS) is unable to The Reverend Green – cope with complicated debt Stephen, not Al. problems. The Group said that banks are in many cases not lending Yes Minister to businesses, despite public promises to do so. They also claim that over- Minister aggressive debt management companies, which levy exorbi- Relinquishing the job of trying tant interest charges, are now to serve God and Mammon, flourishing. the Chairman of HSBC Bank, Stephen Green – who is also an ordained Church of Eng- land minister – is stepping “Unacceptable face of capitalism” Bob Diamond is to be the British Bank down from the week-day job new Chief Executive of Barclays Bank on an annual pay pack- to join British premier, David age reputed to be worth £11.5m. Commission Cameron’s government as Trade Minister. In order to add a Govern- to propose ment ministry to his religious Diamond ministry, Green will first have break-ups? to be elevated to the House of Lords – where, of course, he Britain’s independent Banking will meet his spiritual bosses – Commission could propose the bishops – as peers. geezer splitting up some retail banking

networks as part of its inquiry UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE into the future of banking. The new CEO of Barclays Bank is to be the man once dubbed by While it has been generally TAKE A Britain’s former Business Secretary, Lord Peter Mandelson as the expected that the Commission, “unacceptable face of banking” – even though Mandelson was chaired by Sir John Vickers, far from being a champion of hairshirt socialism. would examine the option of BREAK Bob Diamond, the New Apart from hitting the separating retail banks from York-based head of Barclays head lines in 2007 for his over- their investment banking divi- Special discounts are avail- Capital, will succeed Sir John generous reward package – he sions, there is increasing spec- able for IBOA members on Varley (his junior by four years!) took home £27m that year – ulation that the Commission hotel breaks throughout as Barclays boss. Diamond is also well known as will also consider whether retail Ireland. The imminent elevation of the man who had a lucky escape banking networks in themselves www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie the head of Barclays invest- from the curse of ABN Amro. may have grown too large. ment banking division has been In 2008 Diamond was very Although Lloyds/HBOS and Check out either of the IBOA interpreted by many as a two- vociferous in demanding that RBS have already had to dis- websites on www.iboa.ie/ fingered response to the widely Barclays acquire the Dutch bank. pose of some parts of their members/otherservices or canvassed proposal that the But in the event, RBS, led by branch networks to meet the www.iboa.org.uk/members/ UK’s banking leviathans should Fred Goodwin, sealed the deal EU’s criteria for State support, otherservices for further be separated in order to insu- to buy what was a ‘pig in a poke’ some analysts believe that the information on the special late the retail banking business packed with sub-prime mort- British banking market will still offers currently available to from the potentially adverse gages and other toxic assets have too few players. If the impacts from the much riskier which ultimately brought RBS Commission agrees, Lloyds may IBOA members. investment divisions. to the brink of total collapse. have to sell off more branches.

SPECTRUM 5 september 2010 short: cuts

US boosts The sale of the Priory chain of rehabilitation clinics – famous for treating celebrities like Kate Moss and Susan Boyle – could deliver a big pay-off for its largest investor, RBS. rewards for Ulster Bank’s parent com- to have been interested in acquiring whistle- RBS to pany, Royal Bank of Scotland the chain of 50 clinics – including (RBS), has put its stake in Advent International, Bain Capital, blowing the Priory chain of rehabili- Blackstone Group, The Carlyle Group, Cinven and KKR. tation and mental health benefit RBS became the Priory’s In a renewed effort not merely clinics up for sale in a move largest investor in 2007 following to facilitate the disclosure of that analysts expect could its acquisition of ABN Amro. suspected malpractice in the from net the bank up to £1bn. RBS abandoned plans to financial sector but to encour- As the deadline for bids closed float the business earlier this year. age whistle-blowing, the US earlier this month, a decision on the Another proposal to merge it with Securities and Exchange Com- sale is expected shortly. A number Four Seasons Health Care was mission has decided to offer rehab? informants rewards worth of private equity firms are reported also withdrawn. from 10% to 30% of the total for any amount recovered over $1 million. So the minimum payout will be $100,000. The SEC's whistleblowing SPECSAPPEAL scheme was previously limited to insider trading and offered FORIBOAMEMBERS only small discretionary rewards ranging from 0 to 10% of the amount recovered. But now the scope of the scheme has been extended to all securities law violations – ranging from money launder- ing, accounting fraud and Ponzi schemes to bribery. ¤30 off glasses from the ¤149 range or above The SEC will not only accept employee knowledge or client www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk in the Irish Republic experience as proof but also independent expert analysis. £20 off glasses from the £99 range or above in So any investment analyst, Great Britain and Northern Ireland journalist or academic, who discovers fraud in the course To receive your SpecSavers discount voucher, of their research, could be rewarded if they uncover new call 0(0-353-)1-4755908 or 0(0-44-)2890-200130. information which leads to a successful prosecution. IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION 6 SPECTRUM september 2010 short: cuts Basel sets new capital requirements for banks

A new agreement on higher funding standards for banks reached by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision – will require banks to raise the amount of capital they hold against possible losses. The measure – known as Basel III – is seen as a further step towards preventing a recurrence of the global financial crisis. While the various agreements reached by the committee – which consists of Banking or barking? financial regulators from 27 countries – are not formal treaties, countries with large banking sectors have tended to comply While other banking groups are downsiz- – 8am-8pm Monday to Friday, 8am-6pm the Basel standards. ing and retrenching (Santander excepted) Saturday and 11am-4pm Sunday. It also Irish financial institutions have already the first completely new bank on Britain's promises to open an account in 15 minutes been asked by the Central Bank to increase high streets for more than a century – which is probably just as well in view of their capital reserves by the end of the year. opened two “stores” (branches to you and the bright red-and-blue décor which could As the capital ratios outlined in the new me) in London over the summer. get a little overpowering after a while. Basel III standards are broadly similar to the A privately owned business, Metro Bank The new bank also likes to say yes levels already introduced here, they should is the brainchild of US banking veteran, to canine-loving customers – with dog pose no additional burden on Irish banks. Vernon Hill, and operates seven days a week biscuits provided free of charge!

Great savings and offers for IBOA members in Great Britain and Northern IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE Ireland from Thomas Cook – including a 6% discount on thousands of holidays.

Just call 0870-0102904 – quoting reference IBOA – or visit www.staffholidayclub.com w.bai www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie

SPECTRUM 7 september 2010 8 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk efforts to protect bank staff Minister acknowledges IBOA’s Combatting the Hostage-Takers news: accepted IBOA’s contention that the mediaown concerns in his other comments.Minister also reflectedbanks, theGardaímany andgovernment, of the the Union’sIBOA’s constructive role in discussions withon AIB’s Clondalkin Branch.comments following the recentingly bank from raid – some of his more substantivemedia were distractedcirculation –somemeant that most perhapstheof Irish will- towardsreducing the amount of cash in withdrawals from ATM Justicemachinesforabout additional charges on as a step The comments by the Republic’s Minister In particular, In Minister DermotAhern acknowledging publicly as well As National Sea Life Centre, Bray Seafront, Bray, Offers may not be used in conjunction Co. Wicklow. Tel. 00-353-1-2866939 For families: september 2010 september SPECTRUM Special Offer for for family of 4 (normal price with any other offer or promotion. Save IBOA members ¤ 3 off full admission price www.sealife.ie For individuals: Supersaver deal of focus ¤ 35) ¤ 20 to pass judgement on those whotraumatic have. event, we are not in a position tion.So until we have to confront such hostagea in order heldto being secure was friend our or co-opera- one loved a potentially life-threateningfacea tohadever have fullyfewus of situation where observe the correct protocols.mental remarks accusing staffmentators ofto task failingfor their highly to judge- hadpreviously taken somemedia com- in recent hostage bank raids.closelybank staff had followed protocols hadbeen overly pre-occupied with how The Union’s Pensioners’ Committee organised a trip recently for members to check new Aviva Stadium Taking a Stand at the out the facilities at the impressive new Aviva Stadium at Lansdowne Road, Dublin. The visitors managed to resist the temptation to play a quick game of touch rugby! As the IBOA leader pointed out, thank- Union General Secretary, Larry Broderick, The Republic’s Justice Minister, Dermot Ahern culture: shift

he Minimum Competency This context is important since TRequirement aims “to ensure it may have a significant bearing on that consumers obtain a minimum the way in which the principles acceptable level of competence underpinning the Minimum Com- from individuals acting for or petency Requirements (MCR) are MCR: on behalf of regulated firms actually implemented in practice by in the provision of advice and individual institutions. associated activities on retail In order to shed light on the

In need of major financial products.” actual practice – as opposed to the UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE – Financial Regulator, 2010. broad theory – IBOA has also com- missioned an online survey of comprehensive IBOA recognises the need for bank attitudes and experience operated employees to give best advice to through the Members Only section reform consumers. of the Union website. Although IBOA also recognises the need the survey is ongoing, the interim to take account of the major results are reflected in this article. The Financial Regulator recently issued challenges facing the financial In IBOA’s original submission a consultation paper on the Minimum services sector – including the need on MCR to the Financial Regulator Competency Requirement for staff to change the culture within the in March 2006, the Union antici- sector away from the practices and pated many issues which are now www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie engaged in financial advice and sales policies which gave rise to the being highlighted in the current in credit institutions. current crisis not only at consider- consultation process as well as able cost to the institution’s share- others that have yet to be addressed Following an internal consultation holders, customers and to the – such as industry supports for –which included an online membership taxpayer – but also to staff in the qualifications and CPD. financial sector who are facing a IBOA is particularly concerned survey – IBOA made a comprehensive major haemorrhage in numbers as that, since the introduction of the submission to the Regulator. This article well as being asked to make con- MCR regime in 2007, most financial highlights the main points contained siderable sacrifices in their terms institutions have failed to engage and conditions of employment and adequately on MCR with little in the submission. their overall living standards. ⁄

SPECTRUM 9 september 2010 culture: shift

consideration for the consequences for staff – especially in the current highly challenged environment. The Union is also concerned that new proposals on grandfathering are being put forward on the basis of expediency rather than principle – and with no consideration for their impact on affected individuals.

Responsibility Many aspects relating to the practical implementation of the minimum competency standards require further clarification. The most fundamental of these is whether the primary onus for meeting requirements lies with the regulated firm or the employee. – IBOA, 2006

The issue of responsibility is critical to the operation of MCR. The Financial Regulator’s latest consult - ation paper offers long overdue clarifications on this point by placing the onus clearly on the institutions. This clearer emphasis on the responsibilities of the regulated firms Although appropriate know- two separate banks to demand is welcome since what we have ledge and training are required for significantly different standards seen in practice over the last four all roles, obtaining a recognised from staff operating in similar roles. years has been the effective shifting qualification is not a prerequisite From the consumer’s perspective, of this responsibility onto individual for many roles. this further confuses the issue in staff members. Similarly, for specialist roles (e.g., trying to compare institutions. This is reflected in the failure of mortgages, insurance) qualifications While some institutions have many institutions to facilitate staff You can still other than QFA, such as Professional adopted a pragmatic approach of to study for MCR qualifications or to take part in the Certificates, meet the minimum only requiring staff at or above a attain CPD hours within the work- Union’s online competency requirements. certain grade or working in a ing day; and the unwillingness of survey on MCR IBOA is extremely concerned at particular role to achieve the full many institutions to meet study/ to outline your the wide disparity in the application QFA, in others the full QFA is being examination/repeat fees or associ- experiences and and interpretation of MCR between set as the minimum requirement ated travelling and other expenses. express your the regulated entities. This lack of for all staff – regardless of grade or views. consistency across the sector is whether their roles demand it. Indeed for far too many staff in The survey can ultimately inimical to the underly- Although those institutions the financial services sector, the be accessed at ing principle behind the establish- which set the full QFA as the pursuit and maintenance of MCR www.iboa.ie/ ment of MCR – namely consumer minimum standard for all staff status is undertaken almost members/survey protection. have claimed to do so in the name exclusively in their own time .html of maximising flexibility, there are (requiring 720 study hours for As the survey Where a number of qualifications problems with this approach which the full QFA), largely at their own is posted on the meet the Requirements, it is the should concern the Regulator in expense, and with little or no Members Only responsibility of the regulated firm the context of the fundamental reward for the achievement. section of the to assess which is the most appro- principle underlying MCR – con- website, you will priate qualification for individual sumer protection. www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk Major anomalies need your IBOA employees or principals of the firm, In order to maintain full QFA The scope and application of MCR membership having regard to the Require- status, staff are required to fulfill recognises that not all bank staff number to log ments, and to monitor compliance their CPD obligation, since com- provide advice to consumers on on. with those Requirements. petency not only involves acquiring retail financial products. In many This number is – Financial Regulator 2006 a skill but also practising it. cases the employee’s role is limited on the address So, if Qualified Financial Advisers to making referrals, introductions sheet included This devolution of responsibility to cannot practice their skills across all and interactions based on pre- with your copy of each financial institution has proven of the elements which make up scribed scripts and routines. Spectrum. to be problematic – since it enables ⁄ IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION 10 SPECTRUM september 2010 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk 11 ⁄ shift september 2010 Since only a minority of accredited of minority a only Since SPECTRUM SPECTRUM Grandfathering Grandfathering was never the for be not would so do To

intended to confer temporary status temporary confer to recog- intended clear further to the subject be on would which based employees is it review: experience long-serving – that extensive nition their of virtue by at – is years thirty over cases in some which expertise achieved have to least a equivalent recognised therefore, have, and qualification competency minimum the fulfilled requirement. have entities regulated in and status individuals grandfathered on relied over may time qualifica- these individuals recognised IBOA pursue age, either retirement reach or tions unreasonable be would it believes individuals of status the change to grandfathered. been have that – protection consumer of purposes culture: The Financial Regulator, 2006 Regulator, Financial The – – And when the Regulator tries Regulator the when And Within the parameters set out in out set parameters the Within regulated each Requirements, the firm who will determine should based on be the grandfathered firm Each experience. individual’s the of for criteria the document should availing individuals assessing arrangements. grandfathering non- this to response the However, compliance – proposed in current Regulator’s consultation the grand- out phase –to is document not that – means which fathering institu- financial by failure is only actually but tolerated be to tions rewarded. the regulation another introduce to would banks the like, don’t banks to have do all they is that know even- Regulator the until it ignore it. withdraws tually Send Send a letter to Spectrum at to Spectrum IBOA Street House, Stephen 8 Dublin Upper, us at or e-mail [email protected] Dying to make to Dying on a comment issue? this Grandfathering’ their qualification, then their com- their then qualification, their This approach should aim to should approach This As well as providing detailed As as well providing IBOA believes strongly that it is it that strongly believes IBOA Apart from being more rational more being from Apart One institution which originally which institution One It It is clear from the issues grandfathering process or main- process grandfathering tained proper records including a of register accredited/specified required as individuals accredited Regulator. Financial the by had not adequately engaged in the in engaged adequately not had ‘ The outcome of inspec- MCR-themed the Regulator’s Financial 2009 December in reported tions of exception the “with that stated involve all of stake- involve the relevant of as representatives – with holders consumers and staff employers, Regulator. Financial the as well guidance as to the standards that standards the to as guidance be should in to applied relation involve also within grades and roles should different this industry, the an through appeals mechanism could dispute in issues any which arbitrated. be essential that an agreed approach agreed an that essential applica- and interpretation the for the for established is and MCR of tion consistency and clarity of sake anomalies. of removal the in terms of the demands made on made demands the of terms in relieved qualification, the also to achieve staff has approach new this of problem of the institution the have staff all that ensure to trying the of each to maintain exposure to sufficient order in disciplines QFA areas. all in expertise their adopted this generalist approach generalist this adopted minimum the as QFA requiring of standardfor everyone has sub- to a specialist reverted sequently Certificate the standard setting – the approach as Credit requiring and Consumer in achieve to staff all for – up to qualifications additional for – only QFA full including and more staff working in specialist roles. particular petence to provide advice across all across advice provide to petence areas would be could and compromised. Their inappropriate QFA be designation actually would customers. mislead potentially identified that certain institutions certain that identified two institutions, the results were results the institutions, two unsatisfactory.” 12 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk placesafurther restriction on the beyond normal working staffhours,under pressure tothiswork late working hours. With many branchstudy or take place outside normal full-time basis. family commitments, workingfarfrom ideal onfor individuals a with study for qualificationsis that theand current CPD programmesare ofThe feedback from IBOA membersCoursework proper compensation. bers without the obligationas a pretext to offer for reducingchange instaff the num-grandfatheringcerned that rulesemployers may use a institutions,IBOA is seriously con- challenges facing many of financial employer. responsiblefor the failures of the Anemployee should notbe held failure to meet begrandfatheredthe should status CPD of withdrawalrequirement. the for grounds responsibility onto theirinstitutions employees.to shift the burden of and an attempt by non-compliant in their current roles. in order to be allowed to continuequalification by theachieving taskofrecognisedend –a of this year difficult – and indeedhave unreasonable been suddenly facedbe so. withThis means the that these staff they are no longer consideredwere previously to be grandfatheredinstitutions thathave advised staff who employees’ expense. institutionsoff the hook – non-compliantat their let simply to but culture: ae 2 hus 6 modules @ hours (6 720 take CPD. studytoeffectively undertakeor capacitystaffof findtothe time xes f 3 working weeks – 13excess of 120 hours per module). This is in three and four weeksyear period,a year amountswhen which, to evenbetween if spread over a four- h mxmm nul leave annual maximum the CPD training available during work- entitlement is five weeks. ing hours. an expansion in the study time and Most of the coursesthe Mostofself-are major the of light Indeed in contends IBOA only the that punitive is this again, Once IBOA is also aware that certain Thefull QFA is estimated to IBOA believes there needs to be september 2010 september SPECTRUM shift publications/ at www.iboa.ie/ website Union the on MCR is available on Regulator Financial the to submission of the Union’s text full The mcr.html covered by the employer. hours per annum) should be thatfullyCPD costs and time (i.e., 15 qualifications forstudying and portsshould existrelationin to ate study leave and financial sup- obligation. appropriate CPD the meet /or forstaff to engage in study and provisionduring working reasonable hours make to bank the onusshould be placed firmly on the institutions, thenfinancial abouttheresponsibilities ofthe qualifications and CPD recognised training. providingchannels educationalbodies anddelivery number of approved professionalplaces)and anexpansion ofthe online provision from their work-thefacility for staff to access (includingthis resourcese-learning training, online/increased availability of in-house approved

IBOAbelieves that appropri- sincere is Regulator the If This could be achieved through

potential role in their employment.

relevantbothtotheir actual and

other topics which would be more

of the material and the absence of

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membershaveexpressed serious

additional time by prior agreement.

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difficulty should also be facilitated

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extensions to the deadline to reach

staff in this situation to be granted

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In light of the rapidly changing circumstances in the financial sector, an early review of the curriculum involving representatives from the key stakeholders, the service providers and the Financial Regulator, would be timely. A recurring complaint from staff involved in studying for a ¤ qualification involves the sharp 300 off wire-free disparity between the course-work (including mock exams) and the final examination in each of the monitored alarms QFA modules. A further issue is the marking scheme used in the final examination which, in the opinion of many FREE pocket-sized keyfob with built-in panic button candidates, is weighted to punish errors made rather than give credit for knowledge displayed. • eircom PhoneWatch, Ireland’s leading home A number of respondents to the Union’s online survey have security experts questioned the high failure rate in the examination at the first attempt • Protection 24 hours a day, 7 days a week while at the same time pointing • Extensive range of security solutions to suit UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE out the substantial cost of re-sitting the examination – a cost which is your needs frequently borne by the individual employee. Indeed some went so far as to suggest that this arrangement might be contrived to make money for the examining body. IBOA stongly supports greater Order now on 1850 500 900 diversity in the provision of training so that more user-friendly and cost- effective arrangements can be or log onto www.eircomphonewatch.ie www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie achieved – especially if the current situation continues in which the employees – rather than the employers – bear the major cost. Remember to ask your PhoneWatch sales Any third-level institution or other recognised training provider consultant about your IBOA discount should be permitted to offer MCR courses as long as the Financial Regulator is satisfied as to the suit- ability of their content. S

SPECTRUM 13 september 2010 14 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk news: www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie or see the Union websites: For more information Seats will• be allocated proportionally to pensioner members. Dublin-based• members are urged to opt for the evening performance Ticket applications• in order to should cover your immediate family Only needsfranked up • to– apostal maximum appplications will be accepted which All– must tickets be• accompaniedwill be allocated ontickets a first for comeboth thefirst afternoon servednormal matineebasis asking as andprocessed– price for onthe Monday byevening IBOA IBOADecember isperformance. offering 27. ticketsThe Unionfor twohas special a limitedperformances numbermime ofof Aladdin experience.at unmissable an panto Aladdin be will - carpet and a mesmerising flying magic attitude, with a genie a cave of jewels, Louis Walsh as the Master ofin the the roleWorld. of Abanazar production spectacular and the voice astarring Boyzone Graham Mikey from of in life to of Aladdin which Thiswill year’s be Gaietybrought pantomime magically is the story The Magic of

ln wt amazing visual effects, with Along facilitate attendance by members form outside Dublin atof the 10 afternoontickets. matinee. by a cheque or moeny order. staff to applicants – september 2010 september SPECTRUM Aladdin Remember no IBOA membershp number means no tickets. Parterre Dress Circle & Boxes quoting their IBOA membership number. focus ¤ IBOA Price ¤ Normal Price 33.00 34.00 All applications must be returned to: IBOA The Finance Union ¤ ¤ 23.00 24.00 Sports & Social Dept Stephen St Upper ¤ 10below the IBOA House Dublin 8 Right to Rage conference of the British TUC.King, who addressed Governor, Mervyn England ofthe Bankrecent annual rapid action to reduce Government's Coalition the the deficit.endorsing conference by the at appointed many their own feet or go to the panies,wall,”such asJaguar, he said.hadto stand on seem fair – and it isn’t –economy whenfrom otherthe banks. That com-may not protect them but to protect the rest of the somewhat harder to understand.” becomes taxpayer it the by bailed out isationsthat only two years earlier were large bonuses are paid asto it waspeople deserved. in Butorgan- he added:ness “When leaders being well rewarded as long it has not been expressed morethe deeply.” strength of feeling.for senior bankers, In adding:fact “I understandsympathies”I am surprised with public anger overinstitutions bonuses and policy-makers.crisis lay squarely with risk-taking financial on the economy. damagethat senior bankers had inflicted bershad every right to be angry over Unionthe Congress that they andannualconference theirBritish theofTrades mem- Mervyn King, told delegates England, of Bank the Governor to The of the recent crisis King tells – TUC at banks’ role in economic Workers right to be angry oee, h Gvro as dis- also Governor the However, “In 2008, banks were bailed out not to He said people did not object to busi- He said that the blame for the financial ig ad e lo a “enormous had also he said King news: focus North’s unions launch campaign against public spending cuts

Following rallies in Belfast and Derry last week as part of a wave of other European-wide demonstrations against public spending cuts, trade unions in Northern Ireland are planning a major protest for Belfast on Saturday, October 23 – three days after the UK Chan- cellor of the Exchequer George Osborne is expected to outline his plans following the UK Government’s Spending Review. Amid speculation that up to £2bn could be cut from Northern Ireland’s budget allocation over the next four years, the Northern Ireland Committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (NIC-ICTU) – on which IBOA is represented by Senior Industrial Relations Officer, Gerry Hanna – has warned that the impact of spending cuts could plunge Northern Ireland’s economy deeper into recession – with up to 40,000 jobs under threat. “The strategy being pursued by the UK government will certainly make things worse. They will wreak havoc across Northern Ireland,” said ICTU Assistant General Secretary, Peter Bunting. “An alternative strategy to the current economic difficulties is essential.” In a recently published report, entitled Cuts Myths Debunked, Congress has pointed out that public spending in the United Kingdom is lower than in other UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE parts of Europe. It also notes that in Northern Ireland, the private sector relies on public spending with many public contracts vital for the construction sector and many other small enterprises. “Our analysis shows that cuts in government expenditure – both day-to-day and capital investment in roads and schools – will result in thousands of lost jobs from private firms which provide goods and services to Stormont and local councils,” added Bunting.

“It is also clear that, even after all the years of www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie planned pain, once these services and jobs are removed, they will never come back. This strategy is about the permanent removal of essential jobs and services. “It is about the dismantling of the welfare state, the NHS and other quality services and assets. It is about shifting the burden of the economic crisis from the wealthiest onto all workers and the poorest in our society.” In the lead-up to the October demonstration, NIC- ICTU will be running information stalls in major centres throughout Northern Ireland every Saturday.

SPECTRUM 15 september 2010 safety: feature

Beyond Breaking Point “Scum of the earth!” RTE TV survey confirms shocking level of public abuse of bank workers

survey of bank officials from of being a murderer because someone Customers’ comments also included: A the main banks and financial had committed suicide due to their debts “there was a time when bank robbers institutions for RTE1 television’s The to various institutions. I could go on and were outside the counter,” “you are the Daily Show has found that three on, there are so many stories I have seen scum of the earth” and “are you not in jail out of every four bank officials or experienced. yet?” Another wrote: “One woman said to 65% of bank officials surveyed admitted (75%) surveyed have experienced me that she would put bankers, builders that they fear losing their job while 69% abuse from the public because they and the Catholic hierarchy in a plane and have considered leaving the sector to work for a bank. blow us all up!” ensure job security. Nearly all of this abuse was verbal Over half (55.6%) have stated that (96%) but 4% claim that they experienced they do not feel safe in their job due to the both verbal and physical abuse. 40% have recent spate of kidnappings. experienced this abuse both inside and Commenting on the results of the outside the workplace on a regular basis. survey, which was conducted in association One bank official wrote: “I have been with IBOA the Finance Union, General spat on and threatened with violence for Secretary, Larry Broderick said: not cashing a cheque. I have been accused “Since the onset of the banking crisis, frontline bank officials have experienced an unprecedented level of vitriol and abuse “One customer spat at me in – including threats of violence from the face as he had an unpaid customers and members of the public direct debit on his account. ⁄

www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk Several other customers on a “A customer looking for cash very regular basis are ver- did not want to queue and bally abusive usually com- came to the reception desk. menting on why we still When I tried to explain that have our jobs after what we he needed to queue, he got have done to this country.” angry and struck me.” Claire Byrne of The Daily Show IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION 16 SPECTRUM september 2010 safety: feature

“(You get) grief from taxi drivers or anybody you meet in any social occasion where you mention you work for a bank. The question ‘what do you do?’ is now answered by Great savinGs ‘I work in IT.’ who have chosen to vent their anger at the for IBOA members recklessness of the senior management of these institutions on the ordinary staff working in the branches. “The RTE survey confirms a recent poll & their families conducted by IBOA the Finance Union which found that 77% of bank staff have experienced abuse from customers or the public inside or outside the workplace since the banking crisis began. “Bank officials feel particularly ag- grieved at this treatment because the new culture in banking – which has contributed in no small measure to the current crisis – is one that they have spoken out against on many occasions in the past through their representatives in IBOA the Finance Union. “The stress of working in this high pressure target-driven culture has been further intensified by the prospect of significant job losses – over 6,000 jobs have already gone in banking in Ireland since the crisis began with another 4,000 jobs likely to go in the next twelve months or so. And of course, frontline staff also have • 10% off glasses, contact lenses and designer to deal with the increasingly frequent threat of bank raids and tiger kidnappings. sunglasses, plus FREE eye test UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE “Unlike the fat cats at the top of the financial services sector, the overwhelming • FREE 2nd pair of glasses (including bifocal and majority of bank officials receive very varifocal lenses) modest rewards for their loyalty and hard work. Yet they are being scape-goated • 10% off laser eye surgery, FREE consultation, unjustly for the greed-fuelled recklessness of others. plus 10 months interest-free credit “The public are absolutely right to be angry at the actions of senior executives • 10% off cosmetic treatment, FREE consultation, in financial institutions but they are

plus 10 months interest-free credit www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie absolutely wrong to take their frustrations out on ordinary bank staff who are also victims of the crisis,” he concluded. For more information, check the IBOA websites: S www.iboa.ie/members/otherservices/iboaplusdiscount.html or www.iboa.org.uk/members/otherservices/iboaplusdiscount.html “Ordinary bank officials… are being scape-goated for the These offers are exclusive to IBOA members – so you’ll need greed-fuelled recklessness of your IBOA membership number to access the website. others.”

SPECTRUM 17 september 2010 18 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk below: membertheIBOAofSHWSCommittee mittee in your workplace, please contact a instance. healthandsafety committee inthe first please local your member contact of a about health and safety in your workplace, yourrightsni.html yourrightsroi/healthsafety.html following these links: can be accessed on the IBOA websites bytheRepublic and Northern Ireland These rights under health and safety legislation in everyone. healthier, safer working environmentswithmembers and foremployers createto Security (SHWS) Committee and Welfare Safety, Health, aims IBOA to Thework work safe Play safe- safety: FB, ahrn Mhr (Ulster ROI), Maher Catherine(FTB), Margaret Power (BOI-GB), Ryan- Etain Lyons(AIB), Jaynette Stirling (Ulster NI), oet hmsn NL ad Kate and (NBL) Thompson Robert aly AB –tgte wt Senior with together – (AIB)Varley nutil eain Ofcr Steve Officer, Relations Industrial (0)1-4755908 or 00-44-(0)2890-200130.at [email protected] or by phone at 00-353- Tweed. Ifthere is no health and safety com- If you have any questions or concerns NI: www.iboa.org.uk/knowyourrights/ www.iboa.ie/knowyourrights/ ROI: IBOA has produced guidelines on your You can contact all of these by e-mail

ElaineBarker (BOI), Carmel Curran september 2010 september SPECTRUM feature platform.” the blowout and destruction of the drilling W. Smith, director of NORC's General Social duringthe recent oil well disaster inthe virtuallyignored the 11 workers killed by Survey(GSS). “It is striking that coverage or accidents taken for granted,” says Tom Gulf of Mexico. ofworkers is often overlooked suchas – in the media and public opinion polls has accidents occur. safetyissues when disastrous workplace thatthemediapayclosest attention to University of Chicago. OpinionResearch Center(NORC) theat according to a new study by theand National safety as their topAroundworkers US85%of workplace rate health concern, issue forUSemployees Safety istopworkplace aboutworkplace safety, the study found to improve workers’ rights. basedorganisation that supports efforts WelfareFoundation, Washingtona DC- by NORC and was prepared foron thedozens Public of surveys and experiencespolls conducted with workplace safety, “Workplace safety is too often ignored Evenduring those tragedies, the fate Despite this widespread public concern

The study, Public attitudes towards and draws increasing job security. wages, enhancing terms evenunion and more – thanconditions achieving higheror aworker’s decision on whether to join a safety concerns” was the leadingfoundthatunion’s“a abilityfactor addressto in Law Alliance an employer– organisation – safely after work.” ensureto thatemployees canhomego employerstake more effective measures people on the ofjob loss the mourn before to have should not government and workers themselves placestant on concern.this Givenissue, the importancewe that Foundation, Welfare Publiccommented: the at officergramme been averted.” whole environmental disasterlives would of havethe 11 workershad beenbeen maintained,saved, but not theonly would the Smith. theworker safety aspects, according to disaster the comepletey of overlooking polls focused on the environmental impact A 2006 survey by the US Employment “Workplacesafety shouldcon- abe RobertShull, the workers' rights pro- Buthenoted that “ifoptimal safety Instead,the media coverage and the safety: feature Health and safety gone mad? he supposed excesses of British health Tand safety laws and the actions taken by the agencies charged with implement- ing them have provided a rich vein of material for comedians like Al Murray. This popular representation of health and safety issues is also reflected in British political debate where a virtual consen- sus has been created that businesses are over-regulated, over-burdened and completely tied up in health and safety red tape. But a detailed review of the evidence on safety law enforcement by Steve Tombs and David Whyte for the UK’s Institute of Employment Rights shows that this new conventional wisdom is totally fictitious because the reality is quite the opposite. Al Murray: good for a laugh but safety is no joke! Over the past decade, “This formula of exagger- health and safety issues, the The website noted that in Britain has seen: ation, half-truth, generalisation new British Government has fact the HSE has “banned very • a 69% fall in the and myth-making has created targetted health and safety little outright, apart from a numbers of inspec- a great British joke, the one legislation for a major review. few high-risk exceptions like UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE tions of business about ’elf n safety gone mad,” Cameron’s review is an asbestos, which kills around premises; Strange wrote earlier this attempt to fix something 4,000 people a year.” • a 63% decline in year in the The Independent that isn’t broken, according to Nevertheless, despite all the evidence to the contrary, investigations of on Sunday. Robert son. “To make policy claims about a deluge of red safety incidents at “It’s entered our social based on newspaper headlines tape and excessive regulation work; and fabric – something to be is bad government,” he added. continue to feature not only in • a 48% reduction in shared and tut-tutted at over Britain’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is also trying to comedy routines but also in prosecutions. breakfast tables, in bars and, worse, in workplaces across fight back – with a “myth of public debates about health This collapse in inspection, the country.” the month” on its website. and safety at work. investigation and enforcement He added that Britain had Among the most persistent So much so that one of www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie has dramatically reduced the seen an 81% fall in workplace myths highlighted by the HSE the biggest hazards facing chances of businesses being deaths and a 72% fall in other are that its officials have out- British workplaces now is the detected and prosecuted for reported workplace injuries over lawed toothpicks in restaurants threat that the new Govern- committing safety offences. the past 35 years – something or knitting in hospitals on ment – which is committed Rob Strange, head of the he said was rarely reported be- safety grounds. to major public spending Institute of Occupational Safety cause it wasn’t a “sexy story.” Further myths include claims cuts and deregulation – will and Health, has criticised the Even though many of that health and safety rules attempt to use these popular British media for misleading the media reports “are just bar students from carrying out misconceptions in order to readers with overblown stories complete and utter rubbish,” school chemistry experiments weaken existing health and of over-zealous health and according to Hugh Robertson, or even prevent children from safety protections for workers safety officials. the British TUC’s adviser on throwing snowballs. even further.

SPECTRUM 19 september 2010 20 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk consequencesfor jobs inthe businesses strategy which is – not only likely to haveconcernedaboutBoard’sthe asset sale senior management which have just begun. for IBOA in our negotiationsourIBOAforin withAIB’s Ireland,” he said. “It is also a core demand voluntary basis,” said the uniontakeplace,implementedarethey a leader.on restructuring arrangement within Bank of andbyinsisting that ifredundancies do ingto minimise the impact of these cuts members’ livelihoods as possible by seek- challenged institutions. sacrificed in order to reducetoresult in manycosts more bank staffin beingmany havoc throughout the economy iswrought which haslikely – bankingindustry– almost two years ago. sincethe beginning of the financial crisis over6,000 jobs already lost in the sector newwave of job losses comes on top of ScotlandBankdownofof Ireland. This aspart of the recently announced wind- of Ireland and some of announcedthe 800 overjobs theat summerrisk by the Bank Secretary, Larry Broderick.twelve months, next according the over sector servicesfinancial to IBOA General Up to 4,000 jobs are likely to be lost in the This figure includes the 750 redundancies I ABs ae w ae particularly are we case, AIB’s “In “Thisprinciple is at the centre of the “Our job is to protect as many of our Thereckless mismanagement ofthe Banks likely to sacrifice more staff in cost cuts Outlook Grim Employment september 2010 september SPECTRUM majorclarifybankstopotentialthe for Minister’s recent initiative in requestingsector the began to mount. earlier in the year as the jobs toll withinwithin the the financial servicesfor sector. a discussion on the growingTrade andjobs Innovation, crisis Mr. Batt O’Keeffe, meet the Republic’s Minister for Enterprise,businesses.” whoprovide essential support for these con siderableimpact a have likelyon toIrish-based also is but sale forstaff up h Uin a as welcomed the also has Union The TheUnionhadsought thismeeting A delegation from the Union is due to o a pt uut21:6,200 Total up to August 2010: ltrBn/is cie 1,000 Ulster Bank/First Active: B ehooySrie:200 RBS Technology Services: Postbank: Permanent TSB: National Irish Bank: Halifax: Bank of Ireland: Anglo Irish Bank: AIB: Non-Renewal of Temporary Contracts mentof Retiring/Resigning Staff and IncludingRedundancy, Non-Replace- MAJOR JOB LOSSES SINCE BEGINNING OF THE CRISIS 1,900 1,700 150 120 150 750 230 he declared. policies pursued by senior disastrous reckless and the damage ofmanagement,” industry who – are becomingspecific the the meets needs collateral bestof the frontline which response staff able in the the andrelevant Minister State the agencies meet to todevelop readya suit- supportto financial services staff. enterpriseWe agencies provideare to practical services sector, Larry financial unemployment the Broderick within to added: State agencies in a co-ordinated response added. growthin sustainable the economy as awhole,” to contributehe to capacity longtermalsobutfurther reducetheir prospectsfor recovery in the medium to maynot only jeopardise the banks’ own cuts (typically in thetime thatform thepursuit ofshort-termof redundancies)cost said the IBOA leader. nomic recovery is particularlyices for businessappropriate,” customersthe practical to support requirement eco-justify to anymaintain job reductions serv- in the context of strategies to address appropriate the on work issue. agenciesprise to sector in order to enable furtherthe State's redundanciesenter- in the financial services “We would welcome any initiative for Commentingonthe possible role of some warning for been has “IBOA “The Minister's request to the banks to house: calls Set to be the Difference District Secretaries to meet to plot course for future

istrict Secretaries from the “At the same time, our members are DRepublic of Ireland, Northern caught in the crossfire of the public’s anger Ireland and Britain will meet in at the reckless behaviour of the supposed Dublin in October for a conference leaders of our industry who have not only to consider a Strategic Development undermined public trust in banking but Plan – which has been prepared by have also triggered a seismic shock to the IBOA’s Executive Committee. economy,” said the IBOA leader. The plan aims to ensure that the “This very demanding situation requires Union is fully equipped to deliver the most a more flexible response from the Union effective representation for members so that all of our resources – activists and individually and collectively both inside staff; finance and facilities; experience and the workplace and outside. energy – are deployed to the best possible “Our members are facing the most effect in the interests of our members unprecedented challenges in the history of throughout the sector. the Irish financial services sector,” said “In order to achieve this outcome, Union General Secretary, Larry Broderick. we have to reflect on our core aims and “Living standards and pensions are objectives in this crucial period, establish being challenged. Working conditions and new priorities, where required, and ensure security of employment are also at risk in we develop a fully integrated approach to many institutions. their implementation,” he said. IBOA General Secretary, Larry Broderick Two new Small Ads Big Choice Executive Holiday members Apartments elected to Rent Two vacancies on the Union’s Executive Committee have been filled recently – with Adverts placed for candidates elected unopposed in the two IBOA members by by-elections. In the Ulster Bank Dublin constituency, IBOA members financial planning manager, Ian Perth, has replaced Catherine Maher – while in the Check out the IBOA websites: Allied Irish Bank (GB) constituency, Aisling www.iboa.ie/services/ Reilly returns to the Executive in place of smallads.html or Michael Ryan. The two new members will hold office www.iboa.org.uk/services/ until next Spring when all of the seats on Aisling Reilly returning to represent smallads.html the Executive Committee will be up for members in Allied Irish Bank (GB) on the election. Union’s Executive Committee.

SPECTRUM 21 september 2010 22 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk –– – – Union’s Membership Department: make any changes online. www.iboa.org.uk/members/profile/ and www.iboa.ie/members/profile/either or OnlySection oftheUnion’s websites at Mem the to logging ondetails by dated to cover a maximum canonlyb be of two – arise suchinyecases paymentof subscriptions whichm – could result in a reducedmoving subscription to part-time hours, for exampl changeinemployment suchas status – grade, etc. changesinaddress, employment status, personal and employment such data as – inform IBOA House of anyAll memberschanges should inmake theirsure that they e: Orif you prefer, you can contact the Youcan check your key member o any for refund a for Claims Thisparticularlyis important since a Virtually half-price tickets contact IBOA @ 02890-200130 you informed we can keep us informed, If you keep by telephoning 00-353-1-4755908 or AduLt tIcket: £3 by e-mail to [email protected]; Upper, Dublin 8; by letter to IBOA House, Stephen Street 00-44-2890-200130. To purchase your tickets september 2010 september SPECTRUM union BELFAST only accessible to IBOA members are: the benefit of IBOA members. presentedmation exclusively for to avail of the wide range of infor-with members who have popular very beready proven tobeen keen theUnion’s two websites have al- The new “Members Only” areas of Net benefit Amongthe new resources which are For informationonthe latestoffersforIBOAmembers, log onto:www.iboa.ie/members/otherservices.html or www.iboa.org.uk/members/otherservices.html special offers y EXCLUSIVE for IBOA members only! Discounts • • • public area); summariesavailablenoware thein fulltheUniontextofcirculars (only interviews. guidelines on preparing includingtraining documentation – for promotionaltween IBOA and these employers;Banks) and as well as key agreements be- employments (includingpayrates formembers thetheinmajor Associated IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk 23 september 2010 social SPECTRUM SPECTRUM The men’s competition was won by won was competition men’s The XXXXXXXXXX of XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX. of XXXXXXXXXX sports: Jessie is top golfer top is Jessie IBOA’s Honorary Finance Officer, Jessie Do- Jessie Officer, Finance Honorary Previ- IBOA’s year. the of golfer scooped lady the is Jessie herty, Year the finisher, of third-place Golfer a IBOA ously the at prize top the in Athlone near in Glasson touranment August. 12.99 (usual price (usual 12.99 ¤ No more fees! late Check IBOA websites for details. for websites IBOA Check No more contracts! No catch! www.iboa.ie/members/ a a survey on to MCR, as representations ongoing part Union’s Regulator; of the unfold- Financial the in Republic’s the priorities major on poll a and crisis; ing bank- to a attitudes survey on to public their attitudes staff and employer ing – by as of is part which a running conducted being project research Limerick. of University the special discounts negotiated solely for the on to how claim details solely specific negotiated Members’ the discounts as special well on as services members and IBOA goods listing Ads Small members. by members to offer A special price of of price special A 15.99) is available to all IBOA members. IBOA all to available is 15.99) Online DVD Rentals ¤ www.iboa.org.uk/members/ Once your identity has been verified on verified been has identity your Once So if you haven’t already visited the visited already haven’t So if you Members Only area already, please log on log please already, area Only Members for members. news, IBOA information and for discounts especially the website, you will then be able to select to able be then will you website, the can you which with future. password in own your website the of part this access These areas are constantly updated – updated so constantly are site areas the These of part this visit to important is it to regularly keep of abreast the information. latest new and developments host- currently is area Only – Members polls The or surveys online three ing • • • area Only Members the access to order In address the on find you can will need you your IBOA membership (which number came that sheet with of copy your the magazine. • • 24 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk @iboa.ie or louise.o’[email protected] e-mail:marian.geoghegan or4755908 Upper,Dublin Telephone8. 00-353-(0)1 Louise O’Donnell, IBOA House, Stephen St area. advisedof training opportunities in your an IBOA rep. tionalgrade and whether or not you are interest you, your place of work, occupa- withyour name, address, contact details sc a poe ubr n e-mail and address) number and phone indicating as the(such courses which Geoghegan, Training Marian and Industrial contact Relations pleaseOfficer – register to want youyour if interest so in limited – arePlacesany of the courses as possible. Saturday to facilitate occasionally a evenings and on the as in many participants interested in changing their be may whorecently roles. or their jobs lost have may who guidance members for and courses planning career on is environmentfor financial services which – visionstaff reflects – the more troubled ment opportunities for members.tionslikeSkillnets whichofferdevelop- initiativesin co-operation with organisa- reps,IBOA is involved in broader training listed in the panel to the right.development opportunitiesIBOA offers for a wide membersrange of training – and as well as damaging tofor individual the long-term workers. viability beexpensive. of organisationsBut, it is very short-sighted of short-term cost savings, as training may their training on budgets. back cut financial services – sector manyemployers including most, – some thein the upskilling need employees a different area. instancesto take up new employment undertakein a variety of jobrapidly roles changing or in worksome environment or to M training: existing ones. opingnew skills orare improving Some lives. are working thinking their in aheadchanges and devel- Pleasecontact Marian Geoghegan or Onceyou are registered, you will be Trainingtakesplace during day,the Anew focus for IBOA’s training pro- Apart from providing training for IBOA Thismay be understandable in terms timestheirironicwheninthatis It Thiswillenable themadapttoa to september 2010 september SPECTRUM aig o oe ih major with cope tohaving anyIBOA members are now Wide range of courses Places Limited pro/vision • • • • • • • • • • than the normal price of members/ or www.iboa.org.uk/members/ www.iboa.ie/ check price, special this offer price of only average in all test centres. passratesleastareatabove15% the Belfast, Cork, Galway, Limerickdrivingschool andwith Bray.instructors in Dublin, ince rvn Sho i a national a is School Driving Pinnacle IBOA members can avail of the special For further information on how to claim All instructors are ADI qualified and our Challenge Rising to the DRiVing Interview Skills and Techniques Communications Skills Leadership Development Negotiation Skills Conflict Resolution Social Media Skills Information Technology Training Coaching and Career Guidance Career Planning Personal Development Special rates for IBOA members ¤ 30 per lesson rather – ¤ 35). l • • • • • • • • • redeemed at any time in thenot future.have an expiry date. So they can be party. members buying Gift Vouchers for a third Unlike other vouchers, Pinnacle’s do This offeralsoextendedis IBOA to Recruitment and Organisation Discipline and Grievance HandlingProcedures Members’ Problems My Role as an IBOA Representative Employment Law Workplace Bullying and Harassment in the Health and Safety Stress Management Appraisals Making the Most of Performance essOns IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk 25 september 2010 social SPECTRUM SPECTRUM sports: wIld! IBOA gOes IBOA Each Each of these events free provides very be to proven have days zoo The Two of IBOA’s annual zoo visits for mem- for visits zoo annual the over IBOA’s of place Two took families their and bers – summer in Little Park Wildlife to Fota The Zoo. Dublin to and Cork near place Island takes Zoo Belfast to Out Day Family or2. one October on children four and the adults of two production for on entry children five and adult card. membership IBOA ex- for Zoo, Dublin at attractions: advantage popular took people 3,000 over inclement the ample, of spite in offer IBOA the of morning. the during weather 26 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk John Murphy. and Matt Moran (Ulster Bank).crewed by Shane was Creamer boat winning (BOI) the while by Sam Mc Quaid of Ulster Bank Larke and Noel Maloney. Nigel Kyne, Padraic Creamer, led by Bob Craddock withcompetition Shane was Bank of Ireland from Bank of Ireland. twofrom Ulster Bank andone involvingtwoteams fromAIB, westfor akeenly contested day year’sevent saw 22anglers go BankandBankIreland,of this anglingenthusiasts in AIB, Ulster Corrib ealier this month. competition was held on Lough The annual Inter-Bank Fly Fishing On theFly union: Theleading AIB angler was The heaviest fish was caught team the of winner The of group a by Organised main gate between 10am and IBOA membership card at the adult and five children. fourchildrenandonefor or to free admission 12.30pm,for youtwo will be entitled adults Saturday, October on 2, place 2010. takes ZooBelfast IBOA’sannual Family Day at ZOO AT BELFAST FAMILY DAY n rdcin f your of production On Look us up! september 2010 september SPECTRUM Noel Maloney news Dominic Boyd (BOI) and SharonWeir, McAuleyRobert Thompson (FTB). (NBL), Eillen GormanPictured (NBL), John atWard, Johnthe Campbell summer(ex-NBL), barbeque at the Belfast Bankers’ Club recently were (from left): Kevin Fancy Dress Quiz Niht BBQ @theBBC! per team! up to6players £5 perplayer– Doors open 6.30pm – Quiz starts 7.30pm sharp Belfast Bankers Club, Malone Road, Belfast Email: [email protected] 29th October,2010 Tel: 02890-433154 union: news Tipp Top IBOA member, Brendan Cummins, – the man behind (literally) Tipperary’s quest for victory!

For years he has been one of the top hurling goalkeepers in Ireland – winning four All-Star awards and selected on the Guinness Hurling legends team as the best in his position for the decade 1995-2005 – but for Brendan Cummins from AIB in Cahir, Co. Tipperary, there can be few sweeter sporting moments than the Premier County’s All-Ireland triumph earlier this month over a Kilkenny team that has been acclaimed by some commentators as the best senior hurling team in the history of the game. A triumph made all the sweeter by the fact that the Ballybacon-Grange clubman also scored his first point for his native county – from a long-range free. Despite running the Cats mighty close Release: Brendan Cummins celebrates the in last year’s All-Ireland final and being victory over Kilkenny at the final whistle tipped to challenge strongly again this Photo: INPHO/Lorraine O'Sullivan season, Tipperary got off to the worst over Wexford was followed by a 6-point possible start in their opening game victory over Offaly to set up a quarter-final in the Munster Championship. clash with Galway. In a clash which pitted Brendan In a memorable match, Tipperary Cummins against fellow IBOA eased past the Tribesmen by a single members, John Gardiner and Seán point – a game “that we shouldn’t Óg Ó hAilpín in the Cork team, have won,” concedes Cummins. Tipperary were completely over- Tempered in the crucible of that powered by the Leesiders who quarter-final battle, Tipp hit their produced a vintage performance straps in beating the Munster UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE reminiscent of the glory days of champions, Waterford, by 7 points Cork before the inexorable rise of in the semi-final. Kilkenny. “Next thing you know you’re in The ten-point “hammering” an All-Ireland final and you’ve won at the hands of Cork following on it. It’s been an amazing journey.” from last year’s final defeat led In a performance that belied their Cummins and many of his team- underdog status, Tipp scored a convinc- mates to fear that this year’s champi- ing 8-point win over Kilkenny. onship dream was “dead and buried.” With a second All-Ireland medal “We looked gone just last June but in the bag, Brendan has yet to the qualifiers were good to us,” says decide if he will return to the www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie Cummins. county colours in 2011. For As Tipperary embarked on the the moment he is content to ‘scenic’ route to re-establish their savour the satisfaction of championship pedigree, the dethroning the Cats self- belief gradually – invincible for began to return. so long. A comfortable 11-point w i n

SPECTRUM 27 september 2010 28 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk il ersn mmes n NorthernIreland. in members represent will Institute of Employment RightsJohn in Britain,Hendy QC. who is also chair of the members in the Republic of Ireland while practitioners in employmentservices thehaslaw.secured leadingtwo of inferior contract of toemployment,staff who resisted pressure theto sign an Unionanceawards and gain-sharing payments arising from the withholding cases members’ legal IBOA of by perform-claims legal the against defend barristers to UlsterofteamengagedBankhasAsa “lawyers up” barristers as Bank Union secures top workplace: Oisin Quinn SC will act for the Union’s Queen’s Counsel John Hendy september 2010 september SPECTRUM Senior Counsel Oisín Quinn many of these are of extremelycasessince thebeginning minortheofyear – but observed a marked rise in the numberfinds of and disciplinary meetings,individualing membersIBOAformalfact-at has agement against staff. cases being personalinitiated ofby the Bank’s number man- the cernsabout thesignificant rise in expressedseriouscon-hasIBOA cause for concern personal cases number ofGrowing grievance cases. of the Bank’s approach to disciplinarytake part inand a comprehensive joint review nary action. compared to members subject thetoBank todiscipli- members raising grievances to members of the Bank’s senior manage- with potentially far-reaching consequences at the lack of consistency in approach fromBank and the economy. mentwhose actions have damaged the in sharp contrast to the impunity accorded for the members involved. “Basedon our experience represent- BA a ivtd aaeet to management invited has IBOA Concerns have also been highlighted The Bank’s approach to these staff is news and www.iboa.org.uk. on the Union’s two websites:IBOAreps andwww.iboa.ie will also be posted online the unsuspecting member unaware.lighting some of tactics whichprocess outlining disciplinarycould– thecatch theprocess inand high- involvedmembers thepublication practicialaof guidefor for this task. ing to equip them with themembers necessary will shortlyskills Committee Executivereceive elected specialrecently train- increasedbeciplinaryto is ashearing – members asked essentialto for is whichattend representation a – fact find or dis- members available provide personal to cases. and advice from representation members for demandfacingincreasing personal anumber of initiatives to respond to the In the meantime, the Union is developing Extra support for IBOA members The guide will be made available to all TheUnion is also working tofinalise Thenumber of Executive Committee –a workplace: news Job cuts at Bank of Ireland to be made on voluntary basis

The shock of the recent announcement At the same time, the Union engaged statutory entitlements in Republic of that Bank of Ireland is to reduce its work- in parallel negotiations with senior man- Ireland and Northern Ireland, subject force by a further 750 over a two-year agement with the assistance of mediator, to a cap of 2.5 years. In Great Britain, period as part of the restructuring plan Mark Connaughton, Senior Counsel, who the terms will be six weeks’ pay per agreed with the EU Commission and the made a number of recommendations to year of service inclusive of statutory; Irish Government has been softened to address IBOA’s concerns about pay and • details of specific job numbers and some extent by the agreement reached job security, as follows: areas to be discussed with IBOA in line with IBOA that all redundancies will be • any redundancies required under with existing agreements; implemented on a voluntary basis in line the EU plan to be implemented on a • pay, which is specifically restricted for with previous agreements. voluntary basis in areas where IBOA is 2010 under the restructuring plan, is Among the other major elements of recognised; to be reviewed initially in April 2011 the restructuring plan agreed with the EU • the voluntary parting terms to be six and again in December 2011 without UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE in return for State funding for the Bank are weeks’ pay per year of service plus prejudice to the staff's individual con- the following: tractual entitlements; and • A restructured and viable BOI opera- • the current permanent health insurance tion with continued presence in North- scheme is to be extended to the ern Ireland and Great Britain; normal retirement date. • A Government shareholding in Bank IBOA’s Senior Industrial Relations Officer, of Ireland of 36%; Gerry Hanna, said that “while no-one ever • Disposal of three Bank of Ireland busi- relishes the prospect of job losses, we are nesses: Bank of Ireland Asset Manage- gratified that, in comparison with many ment, ICS Building Society and New other financial institutions on this island,

Ireland Assurance; the number of redundancies being sought www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie • Pay restrictions for 2010; and in Bank of Ireland is proportionately lower. • Pension changes as previously agreed “At the same time,” he continued, under the auspices of the independent “one of our key objectives has been met mediator, Mark Connaughton. in the mediator’s recommendation that IBOA was involved in extensive lobby- any job losses are to be implemented on a ing of the Bank’s senior management, the voluntary basis. Irish Government and the EU Commission “While no movement on pay during in order to try to mitigate the impact on 2010 is possible under the restructuring staff of any measures demanded by plan, the mediator has at least provided a the EU for inclusion in the restructuring IBOA’s Senior Industrial Relations mechanism for it to be considered in April plan. Officer, Gerry Hanna 2011,” he added.

SPECTRUM 29 september 2010 workplace: news Mediator to review key issues in NIB

ndependent mediator, Kevin IFoley, is set to consider a number of issues which could not be resolved in a final round of intensive negotiations between IBOA and National Irish Bank’s senior management recently. The issues outstanding include Northern Bank Chief Executive, a number of elements of the Gerry Mallon restructuring agreement which was brokered by Kevin Foley earlier this year. Summit at

Restructuring Agreement A number of staff have still to be Northern accommodated in new roles, as specified in the agreement, while a number of appeals – involving Bank people who were not successful in applying for new posts – have still to be concluded. Northern Bank Chief Executive, Meanwhile despite making 150 Gerry Mallon, is due to meet IBOA staff redundant earlier this year, negotiators – led by the General the Bank has taken on new staff Secretary, Larry Broderick – for from other institutions at senior wide-ranging discussions about management level on significantly the Bank’s future plans. higher salaries than the vast majority Northern Bank’s senior man- of staff in NIB. agement reached agreement with of change, involving further branch Kevin Foley of the Union on a pay award for staff closures, rationalisation, restructuring the Republic’s Job Security and possibly more redundancies.” Labour Relations earlier this year. It is also totally The Union has also referred the Commission – committed to an earlier agreement issue of job security to the mediator. Pay and Pensions who is to mediate on job security until 2012. Although the Bank has declared The Union has also referred the is- on a range of However, the IBOA General that there would be no additions sues of pensions to the mediator – issues at National Secretary believes it is critically to the 150 redundancies announced after the Bank refused the Union’s Irish Bank. important that the Union has a earlier this year, staff have become request to examine ways to retain clear understanding of the Bank’s concerned about the Bank’s recent the existing Defined Benefit pension medium-term plans especially in announcement that it is to close the context of the rapidly changing five more branches by the end of this scheme rather than forcing staff financial environment. year – with their staff supposed to into a hybrid scheme. “Northern Bank seems to have transfer to neighbouring locations. The final major issue to be In view of the need for further referred to the mediator is pay. weathered the current financial www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk clarification over the closures, the “The Bank has to honour its con- storm better than most,” Larry Union has recommended that the tractual obligations to staff,” said Broderick told Spectrum. “But that affected members do not co-operate the IBOA leader, “especially in the doesn’t mean we should become until there is a comprehensive wake of the major restructuring complacent about its prospects. agreement between the Bank and that has taken place. “We need to be fully engaged IBOA. “The Bank is prepared to invest on all of the issues to ensure that “Staff need certainty for the to enhance its bricks and mortar the interests of staff continue to be future,” said IBOA General Secretary, but is not prepared to invest in recognised by senior management,” Larry Broderick, “not a drip feed staff,” he said. added the Union leader. IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION 30 SPECTRUM september 2010 workplace: news Talks proceed over transfer of Bank of Ireland IT contract to IBM

Multi-lateral talks are under way between IBOA and a number of employers in the wake of the Bank of Ireland’s decision to award its major IT contract to IBM. The work is currently being done by HP – with many former Bank of Ireland staff engaged on the task. Around 200 HP staff are estimated to be involved on the Bank of Ireland contract – with many expected to move when it transfers to IBM. At the same some staff in HP’s subsidiary, HP CDS, also work on the Bank of Ireland account – as well as some IT staff in Bank of Ireland Asset Management (which is due to be sold off as part of the restructuring plan agreed with the EU Commission). IBOA has held a number of meetings with senior management in Bank of Ireland, HP and IBM to HP’s Irish base in discuss various aspects of the trans- Leixlip, County Industrial action fer – including the protection of Kildare. (Photo: pay and pensions and other terms Mark Stedman/ UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE and conditions of employment – Photocall as well as the arrangements for the Ireland). looms at HP CDS transfer of personnel and data.

Two twenty-four hour work stop- Union General Secretary, Larry pages have been scheduled at HP Broderick, said that management’s Customer Delivery Services (CDS) refusal to negotiate in good faith over the failure of management to had caused substantial resentment Hyho Travel provides a range of special deals for IBOA engage in meaningful negotiations among Union members in HP members. Check the IBOA website for details of the with IBOA on a range of issues CDS – who have also alerted HP’s affecting our members – including senior management in the US of www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie latests offers on holidays for destinations worldwide, as the basic right to be represented the Irish management’s failure to well as specialised golf trips and sports packages. by the Union. uphold the company’s principles For every booking made on the Hyho site or via the dedi- An earlier one-day stoppage regarding the proper treatment of cated call centre, Hyho Travel will donate between 10% was called off when management staff. agreed to enter talks with the Union. “The stance taken by HP CDS and 20% of its agency commission to a charity/school/ club However, when management management is all the more or community organisation of your choice at no extra cost. subsequently tried to restrict both surprising,” said the IBOA leader, Check the latest offers through www.iboa.ie/s/7 or the agenda for discussion and the “since we have developed a very www.iboa.org.uk/s/7/. You’ll need your IBOA membership categories of staff entitled to be constructive relationship with HP represented, the talks process was in Ireland. This hostility is completely number to log on! aborted. unwarranted.”

SPECTRUM 31 september 2010 32 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk workplace: AIB Managing Director, Colm Doherty, presenting the Bank’s Club Bankers’ Belfast efs Bt96Ru Belfast 31 MaloneRoad September 2010 September SPECTRUM latest results recently (Photo: Photocall-Ireland). 5.30pm or e-mail: [email protected] is no charge for parties and room booking. Availablefor parties on request (any day). There AVAILABLE FOr pArTIES: The Club opens at 5:30pm from Monday-Friday.OpEnInG HOUrS: were in the club? Isn’t it time you Please phone 02890-382866 any time after02890-382866timephonePleaseany news • follows: theUnionthesein talks asis Theagenda being pursued by our members.” jobs and working conditionshave aof profound impactsions on are thereached which could before,rather than after, deci- seektoinfluence outcomes – General Secretary,be quickening,” Larry Broderick. saidpace the of Union’sdevelopmentwayforward appearsfor the Bank, tothe before it clarified will be to remainbeissues possible to plot a I i iprat ht we important that is “It of number “Although a of Ireland and AIB’s UK operations.agreed to enter into Afterparallelapreliminary talksmeeting, coveringthe two sides havethe now Republic N in AIB way at last Talks under which would ensure that – staffif allagreement for security job achieve a to in AIB on the future of the Bank have finally begun. egotiations between IBOA and senior management and agreement with IBOA.” and following full consultationmentedvoluntaryaon basis are needed, reductions they job should if be thatimple- possible and seeking toworking ensureconditions asfaras bers’ jobs, living standardsWeaim andto defend ourmem- the process is relatively simple. Poland. 70% stake in Bank ZachodniSantander istoacquirein AIB’s Banco that announcement in America followingand theAIB’s divisionrecent UKinterest AIB the ofin saleM&T Bank renewed speculation been about has the possiblethere through major asset capitaldisposals, raising approach to Bank’s the aboutconcerns While IBOA has raised serious • • • • “IBOA’s objective through the IBOA. right to be represented the have Groupby the out grades in all areastoensure through-that staff inall on its future strategy; and Bankreach an agreement the and IBOA ensure to contractual pay outstanding elements; address to and pay; protecttostaff pensions basis; be achieved on a voluntarybenecessary, they would jobreductions proved to workplace: news Selling off the family silver – or robbing Peter to pay Paul!

AIB Group’s decision to sell off its key business interests outside the Republic of Ireland is a policy fraught with difficulty. While the Bank’s immediate objective is to raise ¤7.4 billion in capital in order to meet the new equity ratios required by the Financial Regulator in the Irish Republic – which have now been effectively endorsed in the recently agreed Basel III standards – the sub- plot in the Bank’s approach is the desire – almost to the point of obsession – to avoid the State becoming the majority share-holder after Ireland’s Minister for Finance, Brian Lenihan, undertook to meet any short- fall in the Bank’s capital-raising efforts. Aside from putting key assets in Poland, the US and the UK up for sale, the Bank is also seeking to dis- pose of other smaller businesses like the Goodbody’s stockbroking operation. Alongside the proposed asset sales, the Bank is also planning a further share offering through which it hopes to attract additional private capital in order to reduce the amount of public funding necessary UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE Bank Zachodni in Warsaw, Poland from the Irish State. However, it is highly questionable whether a much reduced bank, stripped of its key assets, would be an attractive proposition for many investors. So AIB’s 10% off all products asset disposal policy may simply be a case of cutting off its nose to spite its face. purchased in the And what of the Bank’s single biggest shareholder – the State? How will the Republic of public interest by served by reducing AIB to little more than a provincial bank – Ireland or www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie retrenched within borders of the Republic Northern Ireland unlike its major competitors, Bank of Ireland and Ulster Bank? on presentation Even if it requires a bigger stake up- front, the tax-payers’ investment would of your IBOA stand a far better chance of being repaid from a bank that retains an international membership dimension – or even a UK dimension. Breaking up AIB is a policy based on card in store. short-term expediency: it is not a long- term strategy.

SPECTRUM 33 September 2010 34 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk developmentplan a for the Society Nationwide on Irish in ment toengage with the new management and theGovern-madebybe to EUfuture – Commission must – possible protection for staff.whichwill provide the maximum Society. reckless mismanagement the of factor in the jobs and livelihoods of thatany decision on the Society’s arein no way responsible for the IrishNationwide employees who sector in future. Society within the financialtomap out apositiveservices role for the Central Bank, IBOA the Financial Regulator andthe has endeavouredGovernment,the EU Commission, this speculation is concrete decisions made,likelyas are to continue. media coverage. depressing of barrage feelunnerved bytheunrelenting manyIrish Nationwide employees bounds of probability. remain within the even or facts doesnot have to be grounded in concern for staff. much of it negative is a cause – of Nationwide. speculation on the futurespotlight of Irish has nowAngloof Irish Bank,shifted themedia towardsbroad terms of the restructuringandthe EU Commissionon the betweentheIrishGovernment Following the outline agreement scrutiny intense media subject to Future of INBS workplace: To this end, IBOA is committed In particular, IBOA has stressed In its discussions with the Irish Unfortunatelyuntil such time hardlyisit So surprising that Byits very nature, speculation Such widespread commentary – september 2010 september SPECTRUM Photocall Lazarov/ Ireland).Sasko (Photo: Dublin. at Grand Parade, Building Society Irish ofNationwide offices The news Yet the Society’s new leadershipas a isfundamental betrayalpublic of trust. reaction to what many regardby the previous management. mishandling of the Society’sthe public affairs outrage at stabilisethe appalling the Society in thecant wakecontribution of made by“especially staff to considering the signifi-General Secretary, Larry Broderick, management,”senior IBOA said position taken so far by the Society’salso rebuffed by management. to negotiate on pay for 2010 were fused to make the payment. missionafter Irish Nationwide re- referredthe matter to the Com- waswithheld in 2009. The Union ary award paid in Decemberon the whichUnion’s claim forfrom a INBScustom- presentations management initial heard andhas IBOA The Labour Relations Commission IBOA seeks redress through LRC Payment withheld Saf er h but f the brunt of “Staff the bear “Wedisappointedare theat Likewise, the Union’s attempts options nowto address IBOA's is claims.assisting exploring sides both in Foley, Kevin person, tations from the parties, LRC chair- viable.” inorder to keep Irish Nationwide tain relationships with customersof staff who have workedprepared to main-to recognise not Society is the “whyadded,the vital role major financial institutions. theirthan counterparts other in have historically beencance lessto each staff wellmember paidwhosignifi- ofone but Societythe– relativelyminorconsideration to Decemberpayment represents a the management team, new a new Board membersSociety and, in introducingof course, consultants,additional investment made by the even in a modest this recogniseway. to prepared not After hearing the initial presen- “Wecannot understand,” he “Comparedtothe significant THe IrISH BankerS’ CluB Bar openInG HourS: Tuesday-Saturday – 4.30pm till late. IBOA HOuse, stepHen street upper, DuBlIn 8 Sunday-Monday – closed.

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Name:...... THE PLACE TO UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE PARTY IN 2010 Male/Female (delete where applicable) Employment:...... • Reduced room hire rates Branch/Dept:...... • 21st, 30th, 40th, etc parties. Bank Account Details • Going away nights • Table Quiz Nights, Race Nights Bank & Branch:...... • Parties and Christenings NSC:...... A/c No...... • Catering and DJ facilities available hereby authorise you to debit my account with the annual

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SPECTRUM 35 september 2010 36 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk re-experience profound their most psychic therapy, which encouraged its practitioners to with him. accountsfor the world's endless fascination of extraordinary beauty and simplicity. songs that are so emotionally raw that, to this complexand difficult person, which, onlyin hepart, could see. In fact, he was a far more day,they are difficult to listen to with songs hemade after leaving the Beatles, alternates peace gazing off into the beingdistancesentimentalised at asgentlea an prince Edenof of his murder in 1980, has often led to Lennon you’ll join us, and the worldnational will liveanthem asof peace.one.” “I hope someday becomehis best-known song and aninter- the only one,” he sang in leaving a Zen-like tranquilityelse and andcalm. dissolve allhis differencesego managed at amongonce to thanpeople, absorb life, everyone he also yearnedness for and a worldgenerosity. in whichone If thathe sawwas himselftempered asby largeran innate inclusive-with potential meaning asfor a thework worldof art at inlarge. whichrecording every songs, act Lennonshimmered cameself-described to view his ‘househusband’;life discourse for orartists; writingdefining andanew that,life as a once again,activism; givingbroadened long, passionate interviews thebeing.Whether engagingwas henature social in of publicrecognisesas ‘John Lennon’ truly came into Beatles in 1970 that the figure the world now the burgeoning counter-culture.became an increasingly importantVietnam, symboland, asthe 1960sof progressed, he the US. He criticised America’sandremoved from radioinvolvement station playlists inin resultedin the band’s records being burned morean observation than aboast, but that popularthan astatement Jesus” – that was remarked in 1965 thatacceptable the Beatles behavior were “morecontroversy for rockand helped stars.redefine theHe outspokennessrules famouslyof thatimmersed thebandin and poignantly realistic. life that was simultaneously literarysensibility and a musical reflective,genius,– profound in a short bututopianmerely – a vision of beyondhis years. Such work suggested not sophisticated, dreamlike a marshaled evoke gorgeous melodiesworld-weariness to well Bird Has Flown), Rain berryFields Forever, Norwegian Wood (This self-presentation. But in stingingsuch songs wit bothas to the penetrating a band's intelligence and a brought music and its been assured. The so-called "smart Beatle," he If Gripped by his immersion in primal-scream Plastic Ono Band Suchimagery, coupled with the tragedy “Youmay say I’m a dreamer, but I'm not It was a Messianic attitude, to be sure, but Butit was only after the breakup of the While in the Beatles, Lennon displayed an september 2010 september SPECTRUM i immortalitytic already would have four members of the Beatles, his artis- John Lennon had only been one of the (1970), the first solo album and Imagine, In My Life, which has he also Straw- is something like a newspaper a report– from Lennon'simmersion in the drama and noise of the day. Ono. And as its cover artof suggests,the city tothe which album he had moved with Yoko soft-focused and otherworldly.and blunt as I the radical frontlines on the political upheavals In New York City was a sort of journalistic agit-prop. home,” in peatedly cries “Mama, don’t ofgo/Daddyabandonment comehis entire life. When he re- famous as a member of the Beatles.five, only to return after his sonHedisappeared had become for good when Lennon was outon the family when John was an infant. father was similarly accidentabsent,whenLennonseventeen.was Hisessentially car andthendiedawalkingin husband, George – wasraised by Julia's sister, Mimi, and hisMimi's life during his childhood inLennon's Liverpool hemother, – Julia, drifted in and out of childhood. thetraumas that hadafflicted hislife since Mother as songs such ininjuries, sought Lennon Cynthia, and their Lennonson, Julian, had in marriedorderrevealed the toinfluence doinofYoko so.Ono, 1969,whom And leaving in that regard, hisas well asafirst manyscarifying others, wife, it brand of therapeutic performance art. humanitarian crisis since it was written. WithDiamonds songs as delicflights andJoycean wordplay suchof nothing more. piano whatever – was guitar,essentialbass,drums,occasionalthe basic – and absolutely environment that could not havethelegendary been PhilmoreSpector, builthesonic a hisown work. Co-producing with Ono and sciously set out to purgeMcCartney thoseand George elementsMartin, fromand he con- ofmuch of the Beatles’ later work with associatePaul the elaborate to significant come was Lennon hadmusical too. arrangements inspiration every social moment and at of ensuredits historical importance; itis calla Own Write o daim ht a poie slc and provided solace has idealism that to sense of beauty. The album's elementstitle track such alone as strings, to createness of more of a Spector, he retains intothehis eloquentsongs. Working plain-spoken-again with Onomelodic andelements reminiscent of the Beatlesfelt confident enough toreintroduce some directness. speech gathered poetic forcetoward through a styleits veryin which unadorned, elemental As its titleits Assuggests, albumthereflects n those traumas And considerable. were From there Lennon turned to a style that The minimalist sound of Lyrically, he turned away from the psyche- On his next album, Consequently, Lennon struggled with fears Plastic Ono Band, and I Am the Walrus Mother, and God magine A Spaniard in the Works aswell as – his books, (1972) is as outward-looking to confront and strip away it’s less a performance than was, for the most part, Imagine and but allows textural Plastic Ono Band Lucy in the Sky (1971), Lennon Sometime and – In His articulated and tried to makein thereal. music he made and the visionall thatof us who hefind ourselves and each other andmore he has been evokedpresent by – beensorely missed. And just as many times Innumerable times sinceality his coulddeath find Lennon free, has whichuntrammeled all the various expression. elementsof ofcontradictions his person- who insisted on a world in less voice of changeforever. and independentBut he has have survivedthought. only primarilygrown. Hisas Lennon'smusic,a rest- influence of course,and symbolic willimportance welcome livetonic. In the years since his death, Beatlesfewamonths later hadprovided a an event for which, ironically,as the assassination the arrivalworld. ofof IntheJohn the US,Kennedy it recalled in nothing 1963 – so much on the night of December 8, building1980. where he and Ono liveddeathoutside apartmentthe to shot was Lennoningly, planning a tour. follow-up, Then, a forshock- songs new the album’s recording release, doing major interviews full-fledged – to comeback support a plotting their life together with Sean.studio The couple to work was on public life, and his family thebecamenextfive years, Lennon his withdrew focus.from theirson, Sean, was born later that year. For greatest work. Butnonethoseof albums rankamong his tributeto the musical pioneers of his youth. 1976. Lennon finally was awarded Lennon deported.his green have cardYears toin of attempted legalmovement, battles ensued anti-warbefore the recruiting leader andof tool that a former Beatle might becomeadministration, a potent paranoid problems Lennon,about for however. Nixon Thethe possibility the releasethealbum,his of Ono split up in the fallfound of their1973, matchshortly in hisbefore personal life. He and of single as a solo artist;John andthat gave theLennon sweethis first nostalgianumber-one Through the Night, Games; Walls and Bridges’pointsinclude the lovely Whatevertitle track of Gets You with mixed results, to recoverare thehis expressions voice. of a major artistandBridges seeking, the albums he made duringindulgence this period, and artisticOnoas his “lost drift.weekend,”a periodLike ofwild eighteenmonthsspenthe separated from moved to Los Angeles and later described the

Lennon'sdeath broke hearts around the Then, in 1980, he and Ono returned to the In 1975, Lennon re-united with Ono, and None of them lack charm, and their high He is an enemy of the status quo, a bundle i atvs wud rae enormous create would activism His Lennon's political struggles unfortunately Rock N Roll, (1974)and a covers album that was Lennon’s Double Fantasy, a rollicking duet with Elton Anthony– DeCurtis RockNRoll MindGames. Mind Games, a hymn to (1975), Mind Walls He IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE w.bai www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie

37 38 IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk toconfirm what most people this style for themselves but thethey better. productivityand so the more achieving higher to key the many business leaders thought school among of(usually a visory role to do the same. encourage everyone in a super- macho the management style the more insecure) that fear is us just can’t act that well! ownwork situation. yourMany of with unhappy deeply with real conviction if a – particularyou are product or service presentto sell the benefits of the public. interaction with of lots employed in jobs involving morethan commonsense moreproductive littleis happy thatworkers be likely are to idea the Formost rational people work: But new research appears adopt they do only Not Butunfortunately there is After all, it’s very difficult to seily f hy are they especially if – Happy workers reallyare more productive Effect Brent The september 2010 september SPECTRUM life Ricky Gervais as David Brent, the fun-loving boss in BBC1’s amn bsd n the on number of correct based answers. payment alsoreceived theya performance-related fee, attendance tenminutes.basicAlongawith in numbers two-digit asked to add a seriesaskedaddafiveto of exercises. based on a number of different the opposite effect.” while negative emotions have invigorateto humanbeings, ag ad oiie causal effects positive on productivity.” and large happiness “human hasthat and mental health, concluded relationship the on authority leading between a economics WarwickBusiness School and led by Andrew Oswald, of the Institute journal, of UniversityWarwick's a project theEconomic Research ofteam, issue productivity. workers'happiness andtheir thatthereare clear links between – along all suspected n n, ujcs were subjects one, In Theteam’s findings were “Positive emotions appear n rpr i te latest the in report a In comedy movie not happiness,merely to the watching in of the crease seemstobe linked tothe in- ductive,” the team reported. workers pro- less 10% were productive.more Unhappier 12% were found,research ductivity. achievehigherlevels pro-of higher happiness levelscomedy did notfilm but did not report regardless of gender. productivitythan for the rest, achieved significantly higher ported higher happiness levels sticks. showingpatterns whoof coloured those “placebo” – filmwatched a or it, see not comparedthosedidtowho happiness, of levels higher British comedian. well-known aperformed by film based on comedy routines Hpir okr, our workers, “Happier Subjects who watched the re- who subjects Those Those who saw it reported Some were shown a short “The increase in productivity per se. ” The Office. to consider the implications.”promotionpolicies willwant architects of the and agers departments, business man- argue,“then human resource to productivity,”place the brings researchers increased returns business thecommunity.” in and economics and thoughtamong scholars “provoke in psychologyshould emotion human of impact that their investigation believes team thedebated, into the frequently are technology – en- hancedtraining as orimproved such – productivity raising for strategies tional striking.” unexpectedly was ductivity subjects, the difference homogeneousin pro- sample of our 10% worse than others. years performed average on their previousfamilies the two in in illness or death a subjects who had experienced “If happiness in the work- While many more conven- “Giventhe extraordinarily Theteam also found that euro: spectrum

egotiators from the three EU Ninstitutions – the Council, the Oliver Röthig, Head of UNI Finance Commission and the Parliament – have finally reached an agreement on a new European structure for supervision of the finance sector. The supervisory package is a corner stone in the series of financial reforms initiated by the European Commission as a reaction to the financial crisis. Bernadette Ségol, Regional Secretary of the UNI Europa union federation, said: “UNI Europa very much welcomes this new agreement. Financial markets do not follow national borders. We must have strong European structures to ensure that financial institutions are properly super- vised so that we do not experience another disastrous crisis. “However,” she continued, “things are far from done with this agreement. We still have a long way to go to ensure safe and stable financial markets, which serves Welcome for EU’s new ordinary citizens and not the fat cats.” Oliver Röthig, Head of the Finance Division of the UNI global union federation, said: “We are very happy with this agree- structures for financial ment. The new European supervisory authorities will be furnished with stronger powers than we could have hoped for, and will, for example, be authorised to ban sector supervision very risky products. “And representing employees in the supervision for years. So this is a good step The European Parliament won this finance sector, we welcome, of course, in the right direction,” Röthig added. battle – which ensures stronger and better in particular the new stakeholder con - The supervisory package has been the European supervision of the finance sultation groups, which will be set up for focus of strong disagreement between the sector. each of the European supervisory author- European Parliament and the European It has also been seen as a victory for ities, and where employee representatives Council (made up of representatives of the European democracy, with the Parliament will have a number of seats. UNI Finance member States’ governments) as to how standing together across political parties has fought for more involvement of much power should be accorded to the against the protectionist approach of UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE finance workers in financial regulation and new European supervisory authorities. individual member States.

Sheilas Flowers is a leading online florist and flower shop. We can offer same day flower delivery personally throughout Dublin, Bray and North Wicklow. Also as founding members of Interflora, flowers and gifts can be delivered to practically anywhere in Ireland, the United Kingdom, and worldwide.

From fresh flowers and plants to our extensive selection of www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie chocolates, wines, soft toys and balloons, we have a stunning selection of gifts to choose from. For more information on how to obtain your special 10% discount in Ireland and the UK, check the IBOA websites: www.iboa.ie/members/otherservices.html or www.iboa.org.uk/members/otherservices.html

SPECTRUM 39 september 2010 music: maestro

An overnight success …after 20 years!

Imelda

ayhem, the fantastic new kindness on the part of the veteran such as the poignant autobiographical Malbum from Imelda May, rocker but recognition of a unique ballad, Kentish Town Waltz, the showcases the burgeoning talent and authentic talent that has been classic blues, Too Sad to Cry, and the of an artist growing in confidence. honed by twenty years learning her airy love song, I’m Alive. Initially pigeon-holed as a rocka- craft on the circuit in pubs and clubs. For more information on Imelda’s billy performer, Imelda demonstrates Her big break came on Later with upcoming appearances, log on to sustained excellence in a range of Jools Holland – after an anonymous www.imeldamay.co.uk genres to prove beyond doubt that patron in a pub in Sheffield talked she is the real deal. her up to the BBC2 host. Although Mayhem proves that her appear- Holland had been unaware of her to ance on stage with Jeff Beck at this this point, he made enquiries and began year’s Grammys was not an act of to pester his producers to book her. Special Offer for Initially reluctant, they finally gave in when they needed a replacement IBOA Members for a guest who bailed at the last moment. And the rest, of course, was history. The record companies that had www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk previously turned down her debut album, Love Tattoo – which had been put together on a shoe string – ¤ were on the phone immediately of- 1 off every CD you fering her a contract. buy when you visit While May delivers plenty of rock oomph to satisfy previous expectations, www.cdwow.ie/iboa she also reveals a broader repertoire – IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION 40 SPECTRUM september 2010 stage: write A play for our times Enron in Dublin There’s more than a little irony in the fact that a play about corruption in business which resulted in one of the biggest collapses in US corporate history should be one of the headline productions of a theatre festival sponsored by Ulster Bank whose parent – Royal Bank of Scotland – managed to set its own rather ignominious record for business failure – which, while not corrupt within the legal definition of the term, nevertheless displayed a certain ethical bankruptcy. Although Lucy Prebble's play is about the rise and fall of the Texan energy company, Enron, in the 1990s and early 2000s, many of its central conclusions are valid for the financial services sector today.

A modern morality play UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE with a dash of political satire and a spectacular multimedia presentation, Enron covers the period since 1992. Enron’s Chief Executive, Jeffrey Skilling, is the principal among a number of villains of the piece, along with Enron founder, Kenneth Lay, “We're not just an energy with protecting the share- about the level of senior who is content to give Skilling company – we're a power- holder interest – and the bankers’ bonuses in the wake

his head so long as the profits house of ideas,” declares complicity of a battery of of the crash, we see the www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie keep rolling in. Skilling. lawyers, analysts and ordinary Enron employees Skilling’s accession to the The key to the realisation investment advisors who all facing ruin while others are throne is based upon his of Skilling’s ambition is help to sustain the pretence. taking huge bonuses. blueprint of the future which provided by the company’s When the edifice finally sees Enron diversifying beyond financial officer, Andy Fastow, comes crashing down, Enron Enron runs at Dublin’s Gaiety its core business as a supplier who creates a number of paper has accummulated debts Theatre from October 12 to 16 of natural gas to become a businesses through which worth $38bn. Skilling is jailed as part of the Dublin Theatre company which trades in Enron’s rapidly mounting debts while Lay dies before sentence Festival. Priced from E15-E40, various forms of energy along can be disguised as assets – can be passed. tickets are available from the with the internet and the thanks to the incomptence of And in scenes that evoke festival box office or online from weather. various ‘watchdogs’ – charged many of the current concerns www. dublintheatrefestival.com

SPECTRUM 41 september 2010 sports: life

ime flies when you’re Thaving fun. It doesn’t seem like two years since Irish teams off to a flier! the journey to South Africa began. That World Cup has been and gone, and here we are, on the road again. Much more sobering is the thought that it’s almost a quarter of a century since Jack Charlton loaded up the wagons and set off with the Republic of Ireland on a qualifying campaign that was to lead to a place in the Finals for the very first time. It was a different world back then. The Berlin Wall still stood. The group that included North- ern Ireland and England also featured a team representing Yugoslavia. The Soviet Union and East Germany had been drawn together. In total, just thirty teams battled it out for the seven places up for grabs – West Germany, the hosts of Euro 88, qualified as of right. The 31 nations who contested the competition have now mush- roomed into a total of 53 teams Kevin Doyle Armenia beat Belgium in Yerevan, Keane had at least been on the (51 in the qualifying competition hurdles Christian and the World Cup winners, Spain, pitch for his club, but two appear- with the joint hosts Poland and Martinez during only won there courtesy of a penalty. ances as a Tottenham substitute, Ukraine already through). the Republic of Furthermore, the Republic’s amounting to only 46 minutes, was Every journey begins with a Ireland’s recent readiness for the contest was com- all he had to add to his glorious night single step. The Republic of UEFA Euro 2012 promised by the fact that the season at the Aviva. Liam Lawrence and Ireland’s first was the longest, qualifier against had scarcely started for some key Aiden McGeady hadn’t played at all. to Yerevan, in Armenia, which Andorra. (Photo: players. Shay Given’s only outing had In the circumstances, surmount- used to be part of the USSR. INPHO/Donall been three weeks previously, the ing this banana skin, courtesy of Yerevan is a city the size of Farmer) friendly against Argentina, when Keith Fahey’s first international goal, Dublin, that still bears the scars Robbie Keane had won his 100th cap. was a great result. of neglect of the previous era. Apart from two streets in the centre and the squares they connect, it’s pretty run down. 10% discount for IBOA members But the same cannot be said of Armenian football. Within the past twelve months, their Under-21 side has comprehen- on trips to major sporting events sively beaten Ireland twice in qualification for that European in Britain, Scotland and Spain – championship. The team’s captain, Henrikh as well as other holiday attractions in Britain. Mkhitaryan, who’s just 21 now

www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.ukJ39 and has already been the subject of a big money move to the For more information phone 00-353-1-6292000 or 00-353-21-4377501, Ukrainian Champions League side Shakhtar Donetsk, is one of e-mail: [email protected] or several from that under-age squad who now play for the full visit our website at international team. In the qualifying competition www.celtichorizontours.com for the South Africa World Cup, IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION 42 SPECTRUM september 2010 sports: life

and again displayed the all-round excellence demanded of a present- day front man, thoroughly deserving his accolade as Man of the Match. And Kevin Kilbane, who soared to head his first goal for Ireland in exactly 3 years and 7 months, was playing in his 62nd consecutive competitive international. Only Billy Wright of Wolves and England has beaten that record, courtesy of 70 games in a row for England between 1951 and 1959. But that was in the days when the concept of a “competitive” match included showpiece games, like the one England played against a Rest of Europe XI at Wembley in 1953. Kevin Kilbane has played in every competitive game for the Republic of Ireland since November Though not perhaps as signif- Their biggest win in years, and Corry Evans of 1999 – World Cup and European icant as Northern Ireland’s win in against World Cup finalists at that. Northern Ireland Championship games all – an Slovenia the same night. Their away Next, it’s Italy at Windsor Park, scores the win- achievement without parallel. record makes for dismal reading. when we’ll find out if coach Nigel ning goal away Elsewhere, the opponents of In the last ten years, their only wins Worthington has finally found the to Slovenia the two footballing Irelands in in 25 competitive ties away from fairy-tale formula. during the UEFA what might be termed soccer’s in- Windsor Park had been in Malta, Giovanni Trapattoni’s record Euro 2012 ternational equivalent of rugby’s Liechtenstein, and San Marino. tells you he tends to make his own qualifying match Celtic League – the brand new In Maribor, after the Republic good fortune, and after Armenia, at the Ljudski VRT Carling Nations Cup – had mixed had earned the first three points of the routine follow-up victory over Stadium, Maribor. fortunes. qualification for Euro 2012, North- Andorra completed the perfect (Photo: William Wales lost in Montenegro, then ern Ireland got three of their own. start for his team. Cherry, Press Eye lost their manager. John Toshack, Corry Evans, younger brother If the three who scored in that Ltd) the Football Association of Wales, of Jonny who’d missed the game 3-1 result were guaranteed a or a combination of both decided through injury, came on as a sub headline for hitting the net, each enough was enough. For their next for his first taste of competitive deserves a subheading as well. two games, they’ll be prepared by action, and within a matter of Robbie Keane’s goal was his Brian Flynn, Wales’s former Under- minutes provided the finish that 44th in 102 internationals. Kevin 21 manager, who won 66 caps decided the tie. Doyle blasted the shot of the game during his salad days at Burnley UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE and Leeds United in the 1970s and early ’80s. England, who won’t be in the Carling Nations Cup, top this qualify- McInerney Sports ing group after big wins over Bulgaria and Switzerland. Travel Ltd. Scotland began with a score- less draw in Lithuania, then reached half-time in the next game in a similar state. This time against the mighty

Liechtenstein! www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie 10% discount for IBOA members Whatever Scotland’s manager Craig Levein had to say during the on travel packages to top soccer matches interval, his side went from bad to worse, going behind, before they in Britain, Scotland and Spain. somehow salvaged the situation with an equaliser, and a winner, in For booking call 1850- 206080 from the Republic the 97th minute! Compared to what the Scots or 00-353-61-228022 from Northern Ireland. and the Welsh are experiencing, it www.mcinerneysports.com seems the Irelands are having fun. May time keep flying.

SPECTRUM 43 september 2010 super: quiz

A prize of ¤50 will be awarded to the first entry prize: crossword drawn from our post bag after the closing date.

Across: Down: 1. Ammunition fired from 1. Conspiratorial clique (5) rifle or handgun (9) 2. Cut (9) 6. Writing material (5) 3. Condition affecting 9. Sign (5) joints (10) 10. Classicial dancer (9) 4. Argued (7) 11. Engine for train (10) 5. Invigorate (7) 12. Adult male deer (4) 6. Lord or lady (4) 14. Decorated (7) 7. Indicate (5) 15. Capital of Cyprus (7) 8. Defence (9) 17. North African State (7) 13. Not deliberate (10) 19. Expressed (7) 20. Small measurement (4) 14. Proud of nativeland (9) 22. Very fast or extremely 16. Forfeit (9) hot (10) 18. Major city in Georgia (7) 25. Patience (9) 19. British sculptor (7) 26. Dish made from offal (5) 21. Stringed instrument (5) 27. Sidekick (5) 23. Large (5) 28. Cancellation (9) 24. Victim (4)

Name...... Union No......

Address ......

PREviOuS SOlutiON ...... Across: 1. Splitting; 6. Hairs; 9. Rings; 10. Potpourri; 11. Pythagoras; 12. Jest; 14. Precede; 15. Mindful; 17. Visitor; 19. Novella; 20. Roar; 22. Upbringing; 25. Employer...... Branch/Dept...... Temporary; 26. Flame; 27. Index; 28. Liveliest. A prize of ¤50 will be given to the sender of the first correct Down: 1. Scrap; 2. Lengthens; 3. Testaments; 4. Implore; 5. Got Warm; 6. Hook entry drawn from our post bag on October 31, 2010. Entries 7. Imrie; 8. Scintilla; 13. Uneventful; 14. Pavorotti; 16. Fulminate; 18. Raphael; 19. should be sent to Crossword, Spectrum, IBOA – The Finance Nureyev; 21. Armed; 23. Guest; 24. Coax. Union, IBOA House, Stephen Street Upper, Dublin 8. A The winning entry for the prize crossword competition in the last issue was photocopy of the grid is acceptable if you prefer not to cut up submitted by xxxxxx of xxxxxxxxxxxxx.. the magazine.

Irish Association for Industrial Relations with the support of the Labour Relations Commission and the UCD School of Business 34th Countess Markievicz Memorial Lecture Rethinking Laws against Strikes

www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.uk Professor Sir Bob Hepple Emeritus Master of Clare College and Emeritus Professor of Law, Cambridge UCD Michael Smurﬁt Graduate Business School, Blackrock. Monday, October 11, 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Welcome Reception 5:00 p.m. in the Entrance Hall IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION 44 SPECTRUM september 2010 super: quiz

A prize of ¤30 will be awarded to the first entry drawn picture: board from our post bag after the closing date.

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8

Use the first letter of the surnames of each of the people pictured to spell out the surname of another famous film actor. A prize of ¤30 will be awarded to the sender of the first correct entry drawn from our post bag on October 31, 2010.

A prize of ¤30 will be awarded to the first entry sudoku: challenge drawn from our post bag after the closing date. UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE A prize of ¤30 will be awarded to the sender of the first correct entry 749 5 drawn from our post bag on October 31, 2010. All entries should be sent to Sudoku, Spectrum, IBOA – The 6 7 Finance Union, IBOA House, Stephen Street Upper, Dublin 8. A photo copy of the grid will be acceptable – if you would prefer 19 5 6 not to cut up the magazine. 76 3 5 The winning entry for the Sudoku Challenge in the last issue was submitted by Rachel Barry of Navan, Co. Meath. www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie 2573 5247Name...... Union No: ...... 73 52 Address ......

37 ......

2691 Employer...... Branch/Dept......

SPECTRUM 45 september 2010 ultra: violet with stepHen MAlOne

arclays’ sponsorship of the new Bpublic bike hire scheme in London has proved too big a temptation for some of its “guerilla” critics who are attempting to subvert the bank’s campaign to promote itself. Known as “Boris Bikes” after the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, their mudgards are branded with the Barclays’ logo. Some of the suggested additions to the Barclays’ logo which are on view online at www.youcanstickit.blogspot.com/ include ‘Barclays – Take You For A Ride,’ ‘Barclays – Sub-Prime Pedalling,’ ‘Barclays – Look No Brakes’ and ‘Barclays – Pump the Poor.’ Dublin Bikes The success of a similar public bike scheme in Dublin – sponsored by billboard company, JC Decaux – has exceeded the City Council’s expectations. However, it has given rise to one negative side-effect: the cycling equivalent of ‘Sunday drivers’ among motorists. These occasional cyclists are effectively pedestrians on wheels – and that’s exactly how they behave. You are as likely to encounter them on pavements as on the road – even in streets Business cycles with cycle lanes. It comes to something when the safest place for pedestrians could be in the road with the traffic. But sometimes that’s the only option In the mudguard of progress on narrow pavements.

t was heartening to see that the ormer British Prime Minister, Tony Irecent round of elections in Afghan- FBlair, did his best to capitalise on/ CHAPTERS istan were considerably better run upstage the recent British Labour Party than last year’s Presidential election in leadership contest by publishing his BOOKSTORE which the run-off between the top autobiography, A Journey. two candidates was abandoned when Though the book adds little new Parnell Street Dublin 1 Abdullah Abdullah withdrew amid to our knowledge of the ex-premier’s complaints that supporters of the motivations and opinions of his con- incumbent President Hamid Karzai temporaries such as Gordon Brown had engaged in widespread vote- and George W Bush, Blair does at least rigging. offer a long overdue expression of 10% Although last month’s emorse for underestimat- elections for the Afghan g public opposition to one discount Parliament appear to have f his Government’s most eliminated many of the ontroversial policies. No, for IBOA more blatant abuses, ot the Iraq war – it’s the independent observers still ox-hunting ban, of course. www.iboa.ie www.iboa.org.ukJ39 members identified a number of irreg- Tony Blair now admits ularities. hat his Government’s ban So finally after a military n fox-hunting was a mis- Show your IBOA intervention lasting nine ake. They were oviously membership card years, Afghanistan now onvinced that at the time at the pay point has democratic elections oxes were in possession as reliable as the State of f weapons of mass Florida! estruction! IBOA - THE FINANCE UNION 46 SPECTRUM september 2010 ROI: Adult ¤6.80 Child ¤4.60 NI & GB (exc. London): Adult £4.60 Child £3.65 London: Adult £7.00 Child £4.50

Valid at 26 cinemas around Ireland and over 180 more in Britain to see any film at any time on any day.

For full list of participating cinemas, see UNION FINANCE IBOA - THE www.independentcinematicket.co.uk/

• Arklow: GCG Cinema • Cork (Blackpool): The Reel • Dublin (Swords): • Banbridge: Iveagh Movie Picture Show Movies@Swords Studio • Cork (Douglas): Cinema • Dungannon: Global Cinema • Belfast: Movie House World • Glengormley: Movie House • Carrick-on-Shannon: Carrick • Cork (Mallow): Gate Cinema • Letterkenny: Classic Cinema

Cineplex • Cork (Midleton): Gate Cinema • Lifford: Eclipse Cinemas www.iboa.org.uk www.iboa.ie • Castlebar: Mayo Movie • Cork (North Gate Bridge): • Listowel: Classic Cinema World, Moneen Gate Multiplex • Maghera: Movie House • Coleraine: Movie House • Dublin (Dundrum): • Newtownards: Movieland • Cookstown: The Ritz Movies@Dundrum • Sligo: GCG Cinema • Cork (Ballincollig): The Reel • Dublin (Stillorgan): Ormonde • Waterford: SGC Dungarvan Picture Show Cinema • Wexford: SGC Enniscorthy To avail of these tickets, please send a cheque made payable to the IBOA for the value of the number of tickets you require to IBOA Cinema Offer, IBOA House, Stephen Street Upper, Dublin 8. CINEMAS IN IRELAND IN CINEMAS Note: IBOA accepts no responsibility for lost or stolen tickets, or for tickets which have passed their expiry date.

SPECTRUM 47 september 2010