Talks to continue over dispute on public sector pay deal
Trade unions and Government representatives will hold further separate talks today with an independent body in a bid to resolve the ongoing dispute over public sector pay.
Today, trade unions and government representatives will continue separate discussions with an independent body in an effort to end the current dispute over public sector pay. The talks commenced yesterday under the leadership of Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) Chair Kevin Foley. A department spokesperson confirmed that the process is ongoing and both parties are urged to further examine the issues under discussion.
Officials have pledged to remain available for intensive and constructive engagement, aiming to resolve the matter without unnecessary delay. On Monday, unions announced plans for a 24-hour strike on November 12, accusing the government of not presenting a credible pay offer. The WRC adjourned talks on Friday night, stating that a significant impasse had been reached.
Union representatives reportedly rejected a government offer of pay increases totaling 7.75% over two and a half years, including a 1.75% increase for the current year, backdated to July when the previous pay deal ended. Additional pay increases would follow over 2027 and 2028, amounting to a total of 5%. An additional 1% would be allocated for local bargaining, allowing for pay adjustments in specific roles and grades.
The strike on Thursday week aligns with the first of two European leaders' meetings as part of Ireland's EU Presidency. A demonstration in Dublin and smaller rallies nationwide are planned as part of the strike. Following the work stoppage, unions have promised to intensify work-to-rule actions already underway across the public sector and explore further industrial action.
Delays in reaching a new public sector pay deal resulted in a 24-hour strike by over 300,000 public sector workers last month. Public sector employees, including teachers, nurses, and doctors, participated in the strike on October 14, marking the largest day of national strike action since after the 2008 economic crash. A second planned strike was suspended to allow for talks, but ongoing work-to-rule actions persist.
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