Relations between trade unions and workers‘ councils

In this paper the relationship of Trade Unions and Labour Councils is analyzed through the concept of representation institute within labour relations, the role of Trade Unions and Labour Councils in social dialogue, particularly through the collective bargaining in a company, as well it is analysed what powers and possibilities are given for Trade Unions and Labour Councils by the legislature while dealing with collective disputes, thus revealing their ability to cooperate. Trade Union and Labour Council – representatives of company’s workers defending and representing their interests, which implement workers’ rights, though cannot take advantage of them on their own. Current regulations of workers’ representation priority is given to Trade Union. Establishment of Trade Union in a company which has Labour Council implies a dual representation situation. This situation suggests that the competence of Labour Council should be narrowed. This solution would enable Labour Council become Trade union’s helper and would mean a possibility of re-election of Labour Council while Trade Union is running in the company. Art. 27 of Labour Council Law of the Republic of Lithuania consolidates ability to create joint representation of the Trade Unions and Labour Council, but it is necessary to regulate the question of foundation to make this legal norm function. Furthermore, after the implementation of narrowing functions of Labour Council, setting up company’s Trade Union, the right of joint representation establishment could be refused. It could also solve the question of Labour Councils and Trade Unions competition established by the Art. 27 the 3rd of Labour Council Law which contradicts the international law. Trade Union and Labour Council – parties of a collective work. However, no single piece of legislation provides that the Labour Council and Trade Union operating in the company, could cooperate in solving collective disputes, which means that in this field there is no relationship. This situation suggests that Labour Council has less chance of achieving beneficial outcomes for workers