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...
For Musicians out there
David Agnew Musicians Union of Ireland (MUI) Vice-President From the day I became a professional musician it was important to be in a union. The pride, confidence and sense of belonging, as part of a unique group of creative and talented artists was as significant as...
Call for FAI to protect grassroots jobs and safeguard Football for All
SIPTU representatives have written to the management of the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) seeking an urgent meeting following troubling speculation about potential job losses and organisational cutbacks. The Union has also formally contacted the Oireachtas...
Oireachtas broadcast unit workers seek greater job security
SIPTU representatives have welcomed an announcement that the Dáil Public Accounts Committee will review the contract for video and audio coverage of Oireachtas proceedings, which has been requested by Union members employed to provide this service. SIPTU Organiser,...
Major Pay Wins across Arts, Culture, Print Media and Sport Sector
A string of successful pay deals across the Arts, Culture, Print Media and Sport Sector have delivered strong wage growth, improved benefits and better conditions for hundreds of members nationwide. At Horseracing Ireland, Leopardstown Racecourse, and Leopardstown...
Private sector workers short changed by Government on pensions, sick pay and cost of living crisis
Private sector workers have been short changed by a Government which has broken commitments on pensions, increased sick days and measures to offset the cost of living crisis.
SIPTU secures above rate of inflation pay rises in sector
Above inflation pay rises have been secured by Union members in many workplaces organised by SIPTU Wholesale, Retail, Distribution and Related Sector, in recent months. The deals concluded include Primark for 55 cents on basic pay for first 10 months (21st April...
Shop workers abuse must be tackled
An important motion calling for tougher penalties for those guilty of abusing shop workers in their workplaces was passed at the SIPTU Services Division Biennial Delegate Conference in February. SIPTU Sector Organiser, Denis Sheridan, said: “SIPTU members working in...
Crown Paints members’ response to management break with collective bargaining
SIPTU members are considering their response following Crown Paints management’s break with its long established positive relationship with the Union. SIPTU Organiser, Hugh Kennedy, said: “SIPTU has always had a very good relationship with this company and has...
SIPTU gets the best deal for retail sector workers impacted by Brexit
Brexit has had a major impact on the Irish branches of several UK headquartered retailers as adjustments continue to be made in domestic markets and international markets. SIPTU Services Divisional Organiser, Adrian Kane, said: “With the unstable global political...
SIPTU working to counter threat of job losses at IS Varian in Dublin
SIPTU representatives are engaged in negotiations with the management of brush and houseware manufacturing firm IS Varian concerning the threat of redundancies at its plant in Walkinstown
SIPTU members in Bus Éireann vote to accept above inflation pay increases
SIPTU members have voted by 62% to 38% to accept a Labour Court recommendation on wage increases at the public bus company that will see pay rises of 3.5% and 3.25% over the next two years.
City Hotel Derry management agree to LRA talks with SIPTU representatives
SIPTU members employed in the landmark City Hotel Derry have suspended planned protest action following agreement by the company to engage with their Union representatives.
SIPTU members welcome new minimum rates of pay in the security industry
SIPTU members employed in the security industry have welcomed a new Employment Regulation Order that will come into force on 22nd July which will increase minimum hourly rates of pay.
Artists’ petition delivered to Government calling for safeguarding artists’ incomes
The petition calls on the Minister to protect funding for artists and arts workers following a series of unresolved issues within the Arts Council, which have left the sector in a state of uncertainty.
Early Years Union and employer body call for pay proposal support
SIPTU and the Federation of Early Childhood Providers have jointly called on early childhood care and education employees and employers to support pay proposals which emerged from negotiations at the JLC for the sector.
SIPTU says HSE must address lack of opportunities for Radiographer and Radiation Therapy graduates
SIPTU representatives have called on the HSE to address the lack of opportunities for recent Radiographer and Radiation Therapist graduates to take up employment in the public health service.
Progress on Assault Scheme and sleepover funding for Section 38 staff
After sustained union campaigning, the HSE and Section 38 employers in intellectual disability and community services have confirmed that funding for the Serious Physical Assault Scheme is now available.
HSE admits pension misinformation as talks continue
The Department of Health has confirmed that talks with the Department of Public Expenditure on pension abatement rules for people returning to work for the HSE are ongoing.
National Ambulance Service Talks Nearing Conclusion in the WRC
Ambulance worker representatives are set to conclude negotiations at the Workplace Relations Commission on a future framework for the National Ambulance Service.
Urgent overhaul of for-profit nursing home sector needed
Following RTÉ’s devastating investigation into private nursing homes, SIPTU is demanding immediate government action to enforce safe staffing levels and end the profit-driven neglect of elderly care.
Unions secure balanced and sustainable agreement on extended health services
After weeks of intense negotiations between the HSE, the Department of Health, and health workers’ unions, an agreement has been reached on the HSE Principles for Extended Services.
Section 39 workers win 9.25% pay deal
SIPTU members employed providing vital services including care for the disabled, elderly and youth supports in Section 39 organisations recently voted overwhelmingly in favour of pay proposals
SIPTU members win key commitments in HSE pay dispute
Over the last number of months, SIPTU Health Division members were engaged in a series of workplace actions aimed at resolving a dispute arising from the HSE’s Pay and Numbers Strategy.
We have a Winner!
The winner of Union Week draw, Sharon Slattery, a Catering Assistant in our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Drogheda.
Labour Court recommends a final extension to Long Covid scheme
The Labour Court has issued its recommendation on a Union-wide claim for an Occupational Illness Scheme for Long Covid sufferers. The Government has accepted its recommendations.
Housing ‘not just a crisis anymore, it’s an emergency’
A number of unions were present on recent Raise the Roof rallies including SIPTU, Fórsa, INMO, Connect, INTO, Mandate and Community Action Tenants Union.
Recognising activism: Robert Courtney
Robert Courtney is the type of committed activist that has provided the backbone to our organisation for decades. A Union Shop Steward since he was the age of 15. A stalwart of our Union. Thank you Robert.
Sectoral bargaining key to lifting working conditions for all contract workers
Securing sectoral bargaining, which involves unions and employer bodies coming together to agree minimum pay and standards throughout an industry, is a key strategy for improving conditions for contract services workers in cleaning, security and catering. Rebuilding...
Ed Kenny discusses public procurement at Uni Global Conference
SIPTU Contract Services Sector Organiser, Ed Kenny, discussed how the provisions of EU public procurement directives could be used to protect and improve workplace conditions at the Uni Global Conference held in the Waterfront Centre in Belfast in March. In a...
Respect for Contract Services workers in hospitals
The Sector has embarked on an organising and density building initiative for contract services workers employed in hospitals around the country. The aim of the initiative is to build union power in hospitals against the background of successfully securing the Covid...
Bord na Móna Recycling strike called off following improved offer to workers
SIPTU representatives have agreed to call off a scheduled one-day strike at Bord na Móna Recycling following the securing of a significantly improved offer for workers at talks with the company.
SIPTU seeks meeting with Bus Éireann to discuss anti-social behaviour on Limerick services
SIPTU representatives have written to Bus Éireann management to request an urgent meeting to discuss the increasing incidents of anti-social behaviour on one of its Limerick services
EU must deliver a fair deal for all construction workers
The message to the Polish Presidency from the Irish Government should be clear; no more delays, no more exemptions and no more race to the bottom in the construction industry.”
Reclaiming Elizabeth O’Farrell: A Radical Icon for Our Times
A speech by Deputy General Secretary, Ethel Buckley at launch of a new print of Elizabeth O’Farrell by artist Jim Fitzpatrick as a fundraiser for the Moore Street Preservation Trust.
SIPTU members in Eli Lilly secure Labour Court recommendation on union representation
SIPTU members employed at the Eli Lilly plant have secured a Labour Court recommendation stating that their employer should allow them the right to individual and collective representation by their trade union in workplace disputes.
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,...