Dear Members,
As we move through June, our attention turns to the vital role public services play in supporting our communities and the workers who deliver them every day.
On 23rd June, the European Federation of Public Service Unions (EPSU) will celebrate Public Service Day 2026, aligning with the United Nations International Public Service Day.
This important event forms part of EPSU’s Public Services Emergency campaign, which calls for greater investment in public services, stronger collective agreements, and a clear rejection of austerity, privatisation, and outsourcing.
“SIPTU is proud to play an active role within EPSU through our representation on its Executive Committee in Brussels,” Kevin Figgis, SIPTU Health Divisional Head, said.
“Working alongside the largest federation of public service unions in Europe, we continue to advocate for properly funded public services, decent working conditions, and secure employment for all public service workers.”
For SIPTU Health Division members, these issues are not abstract policy debates.
Every day we see the consequences of understaffing, inadequate resources, and attempts to outsource the essential services provided by our members.
Safe staffing must be recognised as a minimum standard across all grades and professions. It cannot be treated as an optional extra, subject to budget cutbacks or used to pit one group of workers against another in the pursuit of budget resources.
Patients, service users, and workers all benefit when services are properly staffed and resourced through direct employment.
On 23rd June, SIPTU Health Division will join colleagues across Europe in celebrating Public Service Day 2026 and highlight the invaluable contribution of public service workers.
We encourage all members to get involved, organise workplace activities where possible, and send us your photographs so that we can showcase the pride, professionalism, and commitment that exists throughout our public health services.
Together, we will continue to defend, strengthen, and promote quality public services for all.
In solidarity,
Kevin