Teleperformance employees in Ireland, all working remotely, secured the right to union recognition and bargain collectively following the company’s signing of a local agreement with UNI Global Union’s Irish affiliate, CWU (Communication Workers Union).
This agreement is particularly important for Teleperformance workers there, as Irish law has no obligation for an employer to recognize a union or bargain collectively. It reinforces labour relations through social dialogue and underscores Teleperformance’s commitment to the global agreement signed with UNI in 2022.
CWU Head of Organising Fionnuala Ní Bhrógáin said: “The CWU welcomes the successful conclusion of the new agreement reached with Teleperformance. This outcome underscores the value of collective bargaining and constructive engagement between unions and employers. We commend all involved in the process and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring the agreement is fully implemented in the interests of all our members.”
Teleperformance is the world’s biggest provider of business processing services, including outsourced contact centres. Key provisions included in the agreement are:
- Recognition of CWU as the legitimate representative of Teleperformance workers in Ireland.
- The right to collective bargaining once the union has reached a membership threshold of 40 per cent of employees.
- Union access, enabling CWU to engage with workers in a neutral environment, provide information about their rights and promote union membership.
- Respect for freedom of association, ensuring that workers can unionize without interference or retaliation.
- Company neutrality with regard to union activity and organizing efforts.
- Establishment of an implementation committee, made up of representatives from both parties, which will regularly monitor compliance with the agreement, address any issues that arise, and facilitate constructive labour relations.
Christy Hoffman, General Secretary of UNI Global Union, said:
“Whether working from home or in a call centre, all workers deserve a voice. Thanks to CWU’s efforts, Teleperformance workers in Ireland now have a clear path to union representation and collective bargaining. This is yet another example of how our global agreement is turning principles into progress and opening the door to organizing worldwide.”
Photo description: Jennifer Stephenson, Vice President of People Operations (HR) UK & Ireland at Teleperformance (front left) and CWU Head of Organising Fionnuala Ní Bhrógáin (front right) sign the agreement on 25 April 2025.