Exploring host and home country effects on industrial relations in Chinese multinational enterprises – Evidence from Ireland

Abstract

This paper explores the industrial relations (IR) experiences of Chinese multinational enterprises (MNE) in Ireland, with particular focus on the impact of host and home country institutions on IR policies and practices. The study adopted a qualitative methodology of semi-structured interviews with managerial respondents from eight Chinese MNEs located in Ireland and personnel in other relevant public and private organisations. Our results indicate that host country IR institutions (e.g. trade unions, employment legislation and government support) largely explain the IR practices of Chinese MNEs in Ireland. This study also identifies home country effects mostly relating to a hierarchical managerial approach and the development of a culture of harmony and collaboration. Finally, our results also call attention to some emerging ‘convergence’ and ‘divergence’ between Chinese MNEs and other MNEs in Ireland in terms of their IR experiences and responses.