ABSTRACT

The subject of this book is the functioning and effects of voluntary partnership arrangements between management, unions and employees. The book draws on a significant case study of voluntary partnership in the Irish Airports’ Authority, Aer Rianta. This chapter sets the scene for the detailed examination of the Aer Rianta partnership throughout the book. It examines the concept of voluntary partnership and outlines the main themes and questions that have focused the study of voluntary partnership arrangements in general.