This is like discussing evolution with a creationist; you have a preconception based on a dogma (socialism). It seems in your view the more socialist someone is the more right they are.
Despite the view held by the union that what their member was doing was wrong they continued to represent him and would have continued that support all the way to industrial action if necessary. So much for principles. I am sure that the two people I know about weren’t the only employees of the ESB that behaved in this way.
By the way, the person involved was a union rep; as long as he didn't cause any trouble the management were happy to let him be. Oh, and the matter was referred to the internal industrial council but not the labour court.
I agree that the management in the ESB is a joke; they have allowed the union tail to wag the dog for decades.