Irish public sector unions warn of industrial action over pay dispute

Irish public sector unions have warned of impending industrial action due to a failure to reach a new pay agreement. Fórsa, the state’s largest public sector union, indicated that strikes could begin by the end of September. General secretary Kevin Callinan described the potential dispute as a “very long dispute” that could have “very serious effects right across the public sector.”

Simultaneously, SIPTU announced that members in local authorities and state agencies will begin industrial action on September 30. This action will involve a work-to-rule and the withdrawal of workplace goodwill arrangements. SIPTU stated that members will strictly adhere to contractual obligations and cease cooperation with non-statutory initiatives and change programs.

SIPTU organizers cited a lack of progress in establishing a basis for formal negotiations regarding pay, living costs, and recruitment. The union has called on the government and employers to engage urgently to reach a negotiated settlement and prevent further escalation.