The Catering JLC formulates pay and conditions proposals of workers in the industry which, if approved by the Labour Court, legally binds employers to pay certain wage rates and provide conditions of employment. However,the QSFA now contends that the JLC has no right to make such a legally binding provision, as Section 15 of the Constitution states that the sole and exclusive power to make laws is vested in the Oireachtas, and no other authority has power to make laws for the State. It also argued that the existence of the minimum wage and 25 other pieces of legislation protecting employees' rights means that there is no need for JLCs. The chairman of the QSFA, John Grace, warned that the situation would lead to job losses and closures.
John Grace works for QSFA.