A work-to-rule industrial action in the AbbVie manufacturing facility in Carrigtwohill, County Cork began on 19th May in a dispute concerning pay and anti-union practices being implemented by the pharmaceutical manufacturer.
SIPTU Sector Organiser, Andrea Cleere, said: “Our members were left with no option other than to implement a campaign of industrial action after numerous attempts to resolve the issues at the company through negotiations with management have been refused.
“After meeting with members in early 2025, SIPTU representatives wrote to management regarding several matters including pay rates and the lack of a transparent pay structure. Following this communication management retaliated by unilaterally implementing a cap on wages. This ‘union busting’ approach by management is unacceptable to our members who believe they are being financially penalised and victimised for their trade union membership.
“In response they balloted for industrial action, up to and including strike action, with a large majority in favour. The initial stage of their industrial action is a work to rule, including an overtime ban, strict adherence to standard operating procedures and requiring the requisite four weeks’ notice before changing shift patterns.”
Cleere added: “Workers employed by AbbVie Cork have two Labour Court recommendations which advise that the employer recognise SIPTU as the workers chosen union for collective bargaining purposes. This should mean that the company engages with SIPTU representatives on any changes to workers’ terms and conditions including those which effect pay. However, the company has decided to ignore the Labour Court’s recommendation.”
SIPTU Manufacturing Divisional Organiser, Neil McGowan, said: “The workers in Abbvie in Cork have for many years attempted to vindicate their right to collectively bargain with their employer, this has been vetoed by management at every stage and they have had enough. The unanimous vote for industrial action demonstrates the strength of feeling and unity amongst the workers.”