This article analyses a recent complaint pronounced upon by the International Labour Organisation (ILO) relating to collective bargaining rights under Irish law. The article analyses the manner in which the ILO dealt with the complaint and the response of the Irish State. However, the article argues that there are lessons to be drawn from this case of wider significance. In particular, the article considers the role of collective bargaining in the ‘Anglo’ model of industrial relations; the influence of the judiciary in interpreting and protecting collective labour rights; the influence of global multinational corporations on labour law and practice; and the effect of the EU institutions on labour rights in the context of the current crisis.