SIPTU members’ industrial action has brought the Government and trade unions to the table, with work-to-rule action to continue as efforts begin to establish a basis for formal negotiations.
The ICTU Public Services Committee (PSC) has agreed to defer the strike action scheduled for next Wednesday, following discussions between Government and trade union representatives over the last 24 hours.
A Taoiseach-led initiative aimed at breaking the current impasse has been agreed, with independent Chair Kevin Foley appointed to conduct an intensive and focused process to establish a basis for formal negotiations at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
Mr Foley will be assisted by one trade union nominee and one employer nominee. The process is due to begin tomorrow (Saturday, 17th October), with the parties working towards a short document, for approval by both sides, setting out the basis on which formal negotiations can proceed.
While next Wednesday’s strike action has been deferred, work-to-rule action will remain in place where operational.
SIPTU Deputy General Secretary Adrian Kane said the development represented an important step forward but stressed that the Government must now demonstrate its commitment to reaching a fair agreement.
“This week, more than 300,000 civil and public servants stood together and spoke with one voice. Through their organised and democratic action, workers sent a clear message that the cost-of-living crisis is stretching working people to their limits.
“Our collective action has brought the parties to the table. We must now ensure that this process delivers a fair outcome for public service workers.
“There remains a pressing need to rebuild trust and confidence in public service industrial relations. The Government must demonstrate in practice that it has listened to workers and is serious about reaching a resolution.”
Kane thanked SIPTU members and staff for their dedication and determination throughout the dispute, and the public for their continued support.
“I want to thank all our members and staff for their outstanding commitment and solidarity, and the public for the support they have shown to workers throughout this dispute.
“The decision to defer next Wednesday’s strike action provides an opportunity to make progress, but the work is far from finished. We will keep members informed as the process develops.
“The work continues.”