The Chamber of Commerce said today that a GWU proposal to restrict eligibility for government contracts to those companies whose workers are covered by a collective agreement was 'discriminatory'.

It said it supported efforts to eliminate abuse in this area, such as abuse which led to  unfair competition and illegal conditions of employment.

"However, it strongly feels that this latest proposal cannot stand, as it is both discriminatory and it interferes with the workers' fundamental right for freedom of association. There are certainly other acceptable ways, particularly through proper monitoring and enforcement of current legislation and practices," the Chamber said.

The Chamber said it was also shocked by the Union's opposition to the practice of government awarding service contracts to the private sector.

"History has proven, time and time again, that work allocated to the private sector has given better results, providing more efficiency and value for the private taxpayer's money," it said.