News Archive
SIPTU member’s encounter with Taoiseach brings the spotlight on carers’ pay
The long-running dispute concerning pay for Section 39 and other voluntary sector workers came under the spotlight in the last days of the election after an encounter between a SIPTU member and Taoiseach Simon Harris in Kanturk, County Cork on 22nd November. The...
Irish Equity backs Dáil motion linking film and TV tax breaks to respect for artists’ rights
Irish Equity has called on TDs to support a motion which seeks to link the provision of tax breaks to film and TV production companies with an obligation that they respect artists’ rights.
Unions seek management meeting prior to referring Tara Deep dispute to WRC
Tara Mines Group of Unions has written to management requesting an urgent meeting to discuss its failure to commence work on the Tara Deep project.
Bord na Móna Recycling workers reject WRC proposal by 61% to 39%
SIPTU members employed at Bord na Móna Recycling have rejected (61% to 39%) a WRC proposal aimed at resolving the protracted privatisation dispute. The workers will now serve notice of strike.
SIPTU demands an end to the failed policy of for-profit elder care
SIPTU representatives have demanded immediate and swift action from Government to ensure safe staffing levels are implemented across the private nursing home sector without delay.
Awards presented for SIPTU Scholarship Scheme aimed at rewarding activism
The first round of grants from the new SIPTU Education and Development Support (Scholarship) Scheme for 2nd and 3rd level students, recognising involvement in social activism were presented in April in Liberty Hall.
Liberty Hall 60
During a visit to Liberty Hall Senator Bernie Sanders and his wife Jane O’Meara Sanders were presented with a newly commissioned print of the building to mark Liberty Hall 60.
Webinar with the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI) on Employment Permits and Right to Change Employer
In this webinar our friends in the MRCI explain what we need to know about the new system and discuss with SIPTU Deputy General Secretary Ethel Buckley why the new system is better for both workers and unions.
Educate to Organise!
SIPTU College, Ireland’s only Trade Union College, is committed to the principle of worker empowerment through knowledge.
The Unionise Podcast
Listen to the podcast as we explore the latest from the trade union movement, dive deep into our history and unpack the issues shaping workplaces today.
Trade Union Week sees SIPTU events across the country
Trade Union Week 2025 took place from Monday 28th April to Friday 2nd May with events taking place across the island in SIPTU-organised workplaces and in communities.
SIPTU NEC ratifies new policy on Collective Bargaining
The Union’s National Executive Council has ratified a new policy on collective bargaining, union recognition and protections for members against union busting. The policy, ratified at the May meeting of the Executive, is contained in a major submission to a public...
Vacancies: Organisers Required
Your CV and letter of application must be emailed to organiser2025@siptu.ie to arrive no later than 4 p.m. on Thursday, 19th June 2025. Any applications after this date and time will not be accepted.
Section 39, 40, 56 and 10 organisations pay deal accepted
Union members employed providing vital services including care for the disabled, elderly and youth supports in Section 39, 40, 56 and 10 organisations have voted overwhelmingly in favour of Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) pay proposals in a ballot on 1st May....
Respect Transport Workers campaign public survey launched
An online public survey concerning bus, train and tram users’ experience of anti-social behaviour on the public transport network was launched on May Day as the next stage of the SIPTU Respect Transport Workers campaign. SIPTU Sector Organiser, John Murphy, said: “The...
Industrial action at AbbVie plant in Cork in pay and collective bargaining dispute
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,...
Government must honour commitments on workers’ rights and collective bargaining
The Government has been called on to honour its commitments to increase statutory sick pay entitlements, introduce a living wage and draw up a realistic plan to increase collective bargaining in the Irish economy, with SIPTU stating that any roll back on these...
SIPTU Our Union, Our Team members seek meeting with FAI on job loss concerns
SIPTU has written to the management of the FAI seeking an urgent meeting to discuss speculation concerning cutbacks at the sport’s governing body which could result in job losses. SIPTU Organiser, Hugh Kennedy, said: “Last year, our members in the FAI conducted the...
National Workplace Moment of Reflection for Peace in Palestine on 4th June
In the past 18 months, more than 15,000 children have been killed in Gaza. We are inviting workers to observe a moment of reflection at 1:05pm on June 4th, in remembrance of those lives lost.
AbbVie Workers Challenge Government ‘Legislate for Collective Bargaining Now’
SIPTU members at AbbVie in Carrigtwohill, Cork, are urging the Irish government to legislate for collective bargaining rights, citing their long struggle for union recognition.
Highlighting the benefits of union membership during Trade Union Week
The Aviation Sector hosted an information stand at Dublin Airport on 1st May to celebrate Trade Union Week. The stand generated a lot of discussion with existing members and garnered a lot of interest from those workers not in a union. Trade Union Week is a week-long...
Aviation Sector activists discuss future of the Union at AGM
The Aviation Sector Annual General Meeting (AGM) took place on 19th March in Portlaoise, County Laois. The well-attended event saw constructive discussions on several issues. SIPTU Deputy General Secretary, Greg Ennis and TEAC Divisional Organiser, Willie Noone both...
Why we celebrate May Day
By Niall Phillips The 1st of May, or first Monday in May, is a national public holiday in many countries. Workers in Ireland first benefited from this public holiday in 1994. Do you know why 1st of May is a public holiday in so many countries around the world?...
SIPTU Aviation Sector member dismissed during probation wins €8,000
A member of the SIPTU Aviation Sector who had their employment terminated during their probation period has secured a payment of €8,000 at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). The worker commenced employment on 5th February 2024 and was informed that their job...
Pay increases of approximately 20% for Aran Islands based Aer Arann workers
A comprehensive pay agreement was reached between SIPTU and Aer Arann resulting in significant pay increases of approximately 20% for our members operating and living on the Aran Islands. Pay talks for our members working on the Aran Islands, where the cost-of-living...
Notable SIPTU Pay Deals in the Aviation Sector
SR Technics Cork Following a conciliation meeting between SIPTU and SR Technics under the auspices of the Workplace Relations Commission the following proposal was accepted by secret ballot by a large majority of members: A one year pay agreement of 4.1% for 2025 No...
SIPTU recruitment materials
A range of new SIPTU publicity and recruitment materials are available for Shop Stewards and members from their SIPTU Organiser.
Where Have All the Revolutionaries Gone?
The annual Connolly commemoration brings together Union activists, political supporters and members of the Connolly family to remember one of the founders of our Union, James Connolly.
Unions call for nationalisation of Tara Mines if owners fail to develop new ore body
The Tara Mines Group of Unions has called on the Government to take over the running of part or all of Tara Mines if its current owners fail to invest in the development of a major new ore body.
SIPTU Respect Transport Workers campaign launches public transport users survey
An online public survey concerning bus, train and tram users experience of anti-social behaviour on the public transport network was launched on May Day by the Respect Transport Workers campaign
SIPTU members vote for Section 39, 40, 56 and 10 pay proposals
SIPTU members employed in Section 39, 40, 56 and 10 organisations have voted overwhelmingly in favour of Workplace Relations Commission pay proposals in a ballot counted in Liberty Hall today.
SIPTU says Government must respect public opposition to U-turn on workers’ rights
SIPTU has called on the Government to honour its commitments to increase statutory sick pay entitlements and introduce a living wage, highlighting the overwhelming Red C poll support.
SIPTU welcomes Dublin Bus support for Union’s transport policing proposal
SIPTU representatives have welcomed the public support of Dublin Bus management, for the establishment of a dedicated transport police service.
The men who printed the Proclamation
This article tells the story of 3 Dublin printers who risked their lives to print the Proclamation highlighting the often-forgotten role of workers in the fight for independence.
Piercing the heart of a giant
Early in Easter Week the ICA’s Starry Plough flag was hoisted over the Imperial Hotel in O’Connell Street, their place in history assured writes Brian Hanley in our special Easter Monday Read.
Supporting Quality discount for members travelling on Aircoach
Aircoach, a member of the Supporting Quality campaign, is offering all SIPTU members a 15% discount
Manufacturing Division calls for end to lower levels of pay for workers on visas
SIPTU Manufacturing has called for sectoral bargaining and raises in the minimum wages payable to work permit holders in its submission to the Government’s stakeholder consultation on ‘Increases to Employment Permit Minimum Annual Remuneration (MAR) Thresholds’. SIPTU...
SIPTU Deputy General Secretary Greg Ennis appointed to National Trade Forum
The Irish Congress of Trade Unions has nominated SIPTU Deputy General Secretary Greg Ennis as the representative of the trade union movement to the Government’s recently established National Trade Forum. The Forum, which will be chaired by the Tánaiste Simon Harris,...
The Union has your back in an increasingly erratic world
The world is an increasing erratic place, thanks largely to the US Administration of President Donald Trump. Anything that is said about him will probably be out of date by the time you read this, but if you feel like his administration resembles a low budget gameshow...
Redundancy deal secured for workers at Becton Dickinson plant in Drogheda
Management and staff representatives at the Becton Dickinson (BD) plant in Drogheda reached agreement in December last year on redundancy terms after more than five months of negotiations which followed the announcement the facility was to close. The final deal,...
Average above rate of inflation pay rises in 53 companies in last three months
Pay rises negotiated by the Manufacturing Division have averaged 3.8% per annum over the last three months with deals concluded in more than 50 workplaces including major employments including Medtronic, Analog Devices and Tirlán (formerly Avonmore). The pay...
Workers and management meet on sustainable future for Kostal plants
SIPTU representatives have met with workers and management of the German multi-national car parts manufacturer, Kostal, to discuss a sustainable future for its plants in Mallow, County Cork, and Abbeyfeale, County Limerick, as the company undertakes a worldwide...
Government delay on statutory sick pay provision increase condemned
The failure of the Government to honour its commitment on increasing the number of days of entitlement to Statutory Occupational Sick Pay from five to seven, which would bring Ireland closer to the far superior benefits available in other EU member states, has been...
Government must “walk the walk” not just “talk the talk” on Collective Bargaining
SIPTU representatives have today (Tuesday, 15th April) launched a stinging criticism of the Government's contradictory approach to collective bargaining, following the launch of a public consultation on Ireland’s Action Plan under the EU Adequate Minimum Wage...
Stronger Together: Fighting for Fairness in Health, Work and Public Services
The coming years will test us. But if we don’t act, others will fill the void, with division, racism, and fear. We must stand together says Deputy General Secretary John King.
SIPTU says Minister must discuss strict CCPC conditions on BNM Recycling sale
SIPTU has called on Minister for Climate, Environment and Energy, Darragh O’Brien, to meet Bord na Móna (BNM) Recycling workers.
SIPTU conference is warned of threat to public health care from outsourcing of services
Outsourcing key functions to private companies is the biggest threat facing workers and patients within the public health service says SIPTU’s Health Divisional Organiser, Kevin Figgis.
SIPTU condemns Government delay on statutory sick pay provision increase
SIPTU has condemned the failure of the Government to honour its commitment on increasing the number of days of entitlement to Statutory Occupational Sick Pay from five to seven.
SIPTU calls for measures to limit impact of tariffs on productive economy and jobs
SIPTU urges the Government to swiftly address any impact of US tariffs. The union also calls for consideration of shortened working week schemes to protect workers and businesses from any potential fallout.
Neurodiversity — a trade union issue
To mark World Autism Day, we took a look at how our Union can ensure that workplaces are more inclusive and supportive of neurodivergent workers.
SIPTU seeks Taskforce to deal with looming US tariff threat
SIPTU has called on the Government to immediately establish a taskforce to plan for the State’s response to the trade tariffs which have been threatened by the US President Donald Trump.
SIPTU BNM Recycling members defer strike after progress on working conditions protection
SIPTU members at Bord na Móna Recycling, have deferred strike action scheduled to begin on 2nd April to allow for talks at the Workplace Relations Commission.
BNM Recycling workers serve strike notice for 2nd and 3rd April
SIPTU members employed by Bord na Móna Recycling, the country’s last publicly owned domestic waste collection service, have served notice of a two-day strike action for the 2nd and 3rd April.
Building union strength at Stewarts Care: A Shop Steward’s Perspective
At Stewarts Care, a voluntary organisation providing community-based support for individuals with intellectual disabilities, SIPTU’s presence is flourishing thanks to dedicated Shop Stewards like Bernard Kessie. Bernard, a Day Services Support Worker, has been with...
Bowl of shamrock presented to Palestinians as Occupied Territories Bill banner unveiled in Cork
The Cork Council of Trade Unions presented a bowl of shamrock to the Palestinian community at an event marking the unveiling of a new banner on the SIPTU headquarters in the city, Connolly Hall on Lapps Quay, which calls on the Government to enact the Occupied...
SIPTU Health members update: Section 39 pay proposals
Following intensive negotiations we advise that SIPTU has secured a set of Section 39 pay proposals which will now be put to a vote of eligible members. Contact your local official for more details on how and when you can cast your vote.
Bord na Móna Recycling workers vote for strike action
SIPTU members employed by Bord na Móna Recycling have voted overwhelmingly for strike action in a dispute over the protection of workers’ terms and conditions of employment.
Celebrating the Fighting Spirit of Sheila Conroy
In our Sunday Read, Deputy General Secretary Ethel Buckley pays tribute to Sheila Conroy, a pioneering trade unionist and feminist whose extraordinary life and legacy have too often been overlooked.
SIPTU calls for funding for specialist HSE ambulance infectious disease unit
SIPTU representatives have called on the Minister for Health to fund the continuation of Ambulance Emergency Threat Teams which deal with outbreaks of infectious diseases across the State.
Government commitment on transport police service must be made reality
SIPTU’s transport police proposal was included in the Programme for Government published in January, with seeking a swift delivery on this undertaking now the main focus of the Respect Transport Workers campaign.
New permanent toilet facilities for Dublin Bus drivers at route termini
Several bus route termini will have dedicated permanent toilet facilities for Dublin Bus workers in operation later this year.
Port of Cork’s key role in development of South-West region
The Port of Cork is set to play a key role in Cork City becoming the fastest-growing urban area in Ireland over the next 20 years.
Statement on behalf of ICTU Group of Unions – WRC talks adjourn
Talks aimed at resolving the long running pay dispute in the community and voluntary sector have been adjourned tonight, at the request of the WRC, until Friday morning (7th March) at 10.00am.
New TEAC Divisional Organiser Willie Noone
Veteran SIPTU Organiser and activist, Willie Noone, was appointed as the new Transport, Energy, Aviation and Construction (TEAC) Divisional Organiser earlier this month, taking over from Adrian Kane, who has moved onto the Services Division. Willie has a long history...
Clean Air Site Campaign
The Irish Congress of Trade Unions and the Construction Industry Federation have teamed up with the Construction Workers Health Trust (CWHT) to promote clean air practices that reduce dust and contaminated air on all construction sites. Silica dust, in particular,...
New Construction SEO rates come into force in August
The terms of a new Construction Sectoral Employment Order (SEO) will come into force on 1st August 2025 and result in pay rises of approximately 6.6% over the term of its implementation. The new SEO, which supersedes the previous SEO of 2023, sets updated minimum pay...
Tara Mines campaign wins pay-related welfare for all laid-off workers
A campaign by members of the SIPTU Construction Sector employed in Tara Mines in Navan, County Meath, was crucial in securing reform of the social welfare system, which since October 2024 has resulted in laid-off workers receiving 60% of their previous gross weekly...
Unions seek urgent meeting with Minister on water referendum commitment
The Water Services Group of Unions has written to the Minister James Browne, requesting an urgent meeting in relation to the long-standing Government commitment to hold a water referendum.
Musicians Union of Ireland calls for protection for funding
Funding for arts sector projects must be protected during the review of the operation of the Arts Council following the revelations concerning spending on an unsuccessful IT transformation scheme.
BNM Recycling workers commence strike ballot
SIPTU members employed in Bord na Móna Recycling will commence a ballot for strike action in response to the threat to their terms and conditions.
Section 39 workers ballot for strike over inaction on pay
The Government has announced that it intends to meet with Unions representing staff in Section 39 community and voluntary organisations in the face of an ongoing SIPTU Health Division ballot.
HSE HR Circulars Recently Released
HR Circular 025 2024 - 2006 Annual Radiographer - Radiation Therapist Allowance HR Circular 026 2024 Job Evaluation Scheme for Support Staff Phase IV 6083 General Assistant - Addiction Services HR Circular 027 2024 International Returning Emigrants Recruitment...
Report shows major pay gap between Health Care Assistants in public and private employment
A new report from the European Federation of Public Service Unions (EPSU) has revealed a significant pay gap between the earnings of Health Care Assistants (HCAs) in the public and private sectors in some European countries, including Ireland. The report, Wage Watch:...
Progress on local bargaining with allocation of grades
Following weeks of negotiations at the national level, agreement has been reached between SIPTU, HSE and Department of Health representatives on the allocation of grades to create Local Bargaining Units
Disability care workers’ pay left short as providers fail to increase sleepover rates
SIPTU has condemned the failure of publicly funded disability providers to increase pay, in line with National Minimum Wage (NMW) increases.
SIPTU welcomes united political opposition to the sale of Bord na Mona Recycling
SIPTU representatives have welcomed the public and political support for the campaign to prevent the privatisation of Bord na Móna Recycling. #StopTheSale
Shop Stewards needed to organise growing membership in Uisce Éireann
As staff numbers continue to grow in Uisce Éireann so does its SIPTU membership necessitating the need for people to step forward and become Shop Stewards.
More than 7% pay increase over two years secured at Westland Horticulture
A two-year pay agreement has been accepted in a ballot by members employed Westland Horticulture, based in Offaly, and previously traded as Erin Peats.
Coillte pay increases secured in three-year agreement
A comprehensive three-year agreement that affords considerable pay and allowances increases has been secured by SIPTU members at Coillte, Ireland’s semi-state forestry company. The agreement, which covers the period 1st January 2025 until 31st December 2027 provides...
BNM Recycling sale an act of economic vandalism that will be opposed
SIPTU has demanded a halt to the sale of Bord na Móna (BNM) Recycling and an investigation into the attempt to privatise part of a profitable public company in a manner which runs counter to economic and environmental best practice. SIPTU Divisional Organiser, Adrian...
BNM Recycling sale is an act of economic vandalism says SIPTU
SIPTU has demanded a halt to the sale of Bord na Móna Recycling and an investigation into the attempt to privatise part of a profitable public company.
Disability care workers’ pay left short
SIPTU has condemned the failure of publicly funded disability providers to increase pay, in line with National Minimum Wage (NMW) increases, for workers in disability services who carry out sleepover shifts.
SIPTU conference told we need an economy for workers not billionaires
An economy which works for workers rather than billionaires must be built in Ireland, SIPTU Deputy General Secretary, Greg Ennis, told delegates attending the Union’s Services Division Conference
SIPTU will demand TDs honour their pledge to improve workers’ rights
The 89 TDs, a majority of TDs in Dáil Eireann, who signed the ‘Respect at Work’ pledge will be held to account by trade unions to ensure they keep their commitment to improve workers’ rights, SIPTU Deputy General Secretary, Ethel Buckley, told the Union’s Services...
SIPTU conference told unions must help build left alternative to the Government
Trade unions must work with left-wing parties to ensure that the electorate has a credible alternative to the ‘most conservative Government in living memory’
Building a better world as one big union
Sunday Read: SIPTU Deputy General Secretary keynote address at the annual Jim Larkin Commemoration in Glasnevin. #LarkinLives
SIPTU calls on Kent Playgroup Ltd to rethink closure of vital childcare service
SIPTU – The Early Years Union has called on the management of Kent Playgroup Ltd to rethink a decision to end an Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme at its facility in Stoneybatter.
Support Quality Jobs by buying Union-made
SIPTU wishes to remind members to always consider purchasing goods from companies which are part of the Union-backed Supporting Quality campaign.
Skellig Michael workers win earnings battle
Workers maintaining one of the country’s most breathtaking tourist attractions, the island of Skellig Michael have successfully fought to have their earnings protected.
Local bargaining claims served on all employers in State Related Sector
Securing further pay rises for members through the new Local Bargaining Fund is a key priority for the State Related Sector which has lodged claims with each of the agencies and bodies where SIPTU members are organised.
SIPTU members win union recognition in Research Ireland
SIPTU has secured sole collective bargaining rights in Research Ireland following an organising campaign by Union activists in the new agency which funds research and innovation.
Progress towards resolution of Castletown House dispute
SIPTU members employed as Groundskeepers and Tour Guides in Castletown House in County Kildare are considering proposals to end a long-running dispute.
Major staffing increase in National Parks and Wildlife Service
Engagement between SIPTU and the National Parks and Wildlife Service has resulted in agreements which have seen nearly a 40% increase in the number of staff.
Major new countrywide OPW apprenticeship programme rolled out
A new apprenticeship recruitment campaign has commenced in the Office of Public Works (OPW) following an agreement between SIPTU representatives and management.
Dublin Firefighters call out Government pensions betrayal
Younger members of Dublin Fire Brigade, who feel betrayed by the new Government due to its failure to honour commitments on pension reform.
SIPTU has commended Local Authority workers for their work during Storm Éowyn
SIPTU has commended members in Local Authorities for their tireless efforts in delivering essential frontline services during and after Storm Éowyn, despite working with severely limited resources.
Storm Éowyn Weather Warning Update
This is an update from the Early Years Division at the Department of Children. Following yesterday’s communication on Storm Éowyn, please be advised that a Red warning is now in place for every county tomorrow Friday, 24 January. As advised, the National Directorate...
Legacy of the Lockout
The Great Dublin Lockout remains the seminal event in the history of the Irish working class. That epic struggle also ranks as one of the great battles in the history of the workers’ movement.
SIPTU Section 39 workers to ballot for strike over Government inaction on pay
SIPTU’s Health Division is to begin a ballot of up to 5,000 members working in Section 39 Organisations for strike action due to the failure of the Government to honour a pay agreement
SIPTU The Early Years Union welcomes public childcare provision commitment
SIPTU The Early Years Union has welcomed a commitment in the Programme for Government, published today (Wednesday, 15th January), for the rollout of public childcare provision.