Housing and the cost of living highlighted during protest

Trade unions and political activists took to the streets of Dublin, demanding action on housing and the cost of living in the run-up to the 2027 Budget. Representatives from SIPTU, Unite, Fórsa, People Before Profit, Solidarity, Sinn Féin, and the Social Democrats gathered at the Garden of Remembrance before marching to Leinster House for a rally.

SIPTU Sector Organiser Paddy Cole highlighted the central contradiction in Ireland: a thriving economy with workers unable to afford a decent life due to soaring housing costs. Whether renting or hoping to buy, too much of workers' wages is consumed by housing, leaving little room for savings or planning for the future of their families. This crisis affects workers from various sectors, including healthcare, retail, civil service, hospitality, construction, transport, and more.

Government officials must take notice of the growing pressure from organized workers. Unite Deputy Regional Secretary Tom Fitzgerald emphasized that workers across Ireland are struggling with the escalating cost-of-living crisis, with well over a third of public-sector employees finding it hard to make ends meet. Despite this, the government continues to hesitate in negotiating a new pay deal for workers.

To make their voices heard, public and private sector workers are planning to demonstrate on the streets of Dublin on Saturday, as well as on picket lines if the government fails to offer a meaningful response during the upcoming Budget.