A forward-looking set of motions, aimed at strengthening workers’ rights, expanding public services and delivering greater equality, were passed at a highly successful SIPTU Biennial Delegate Conference in Galway from 10th to 13th November.
More than 300 delegates from every Division of the Union participated in the four days of debate, policy development and strategic planning.
A series of key motions were adopted, including a commitment for SIPTU to intensify its campaign for affordable housing. Delegates argued that housing affordability is now one of the most urgent issues facing members.
Speaking after his election as Honorary President, long-standing activist Alan Lindley said: “Workers are getting a raw deal on housing. A fair society begins with the basics, and affordable homes must be at the centre of that.”
Conference also endorsed a coordinated cost-of-living strategy focused on pay progression, collective bargaining expansion and improved protections for precarious, agency and platform workers.
A comprehensive campaign for pay justice for community sector workers was unanimously supported, reflecting the clear demand for Government action to stabilise essential services and address long-standing inequalities.
Delegates were addressed by two prominent guest speakers. ICTU General Secretary Owen Reidy called for urgent reform of Ireland’s collective bargaining framework and stronger statutory rights for workers. Palestinian human rights advocate, Omar Barghouti, spoke of the importance of the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions campaign in placing pressure on Israel to end its oppression of the Palestinian people.
The conference also welcomed new leadership within SIPTU. Delegates elected Lindley as Honorary President and Annette Donlon as Honorary Vice President, recognising their decades of committed grassroots and national-level activism. In addition, delegates warmly acknowledged the retirement of outgoing General Secretary Joe Cunningham and marked the beginning of a new chapter with the appointment of the Union’s General Secretary Designate John King.
The Galway conference closed with surprise appearance from Michael D. Higgins (pictured above) with delegates and guests assured that SIPTU is on a path to renewal with a clear mandate to fight for progressive change for workers across Ireland.