Talks with unions can 'absolutely' begin with pay, says Chambers

Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers suggested pay could serve as the starting point for talks on a new public sector pay deal, marking a potential change in stance. This came as a public sector strike loomed, with over 300,000 workers anticipated to participate. On the eve of the strike, Chambers emphasized the importance of a constructive and meaningful engagement to achieve a fair and sustainable outcome for workers while ensuring affordability for the state.

The 24-hour stoppage was set to disrupt public services, including school closures and canceled hospital appointments, with a second day of strikes planned for October 21 if the dispute persisted. Union officials like SIPTU Deputy General Secretary Adrian Kane welcomed Chambers' stance but criticized it as arriving too late to prevent the action.

They noted it was a reality TV-like approach, highlighting the strike as the largest in the country's history in decades. Kan emphasized that more work was required addressing other issues, asserting that while Chambers' comments were helpful, a comprehensive resolution remained far off. Chambers criticized the unions' decision to opt out of talks, arguing that it would prolong industrial disputes that the public did not want, urging both parties to convene and discuss all matters in a timely manner.