Ireland Faces Fresh Strike Threat as Public Sector Unions Demand New Pay Deal

Dublin: Ireland is facing the prospect of strikes across the public sector as unions step up pressure on the government to negotiate a new pay agreement.

Unite has confirmed that its public-sector members have voted in favour of industrial action, while the Prison Officers’ Association has also backed strike action. Other major public-sector unions, including Fórsa, SIPTU and the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO), have indicated that their members are prepared to take action if a satisfactory pay deal cannot be reached.

The previous public-sector pay agreement expired on June 30, but formal negotiations on a successor agreement have yet to begin. The previous deal provided for pay increases of up to 10.25% over two and a half years.

Unite said it would now consult with shop stewards on the form and timing of any industrial action. The union’s deputy regional secretary, Tom Fitzgerald, called on the government to enter negotiations if it wants to avoid strikes during the winter.

The unions argue that public-sector pay must keep pace with rising living costs and inflation. They are seeking a new agreement that reflects the financial pressures facing workers and ensures that public-sector salaries do not fall behind.

Meanwhile, Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers has described the threat of industrial action as unnecessary and said the government wants to reach an agreement on public-sector pay.

However, despite the government’s stated willingness to engage, no formal talks have begun so far.

A spokesperson for the Department of Public Expenditure said the government remained prepared to engage with unions on all relevant issues.

Irish Samachar English News