
SIPTU is the largest Union in Ireland with over 180,000 members. It is committed to the achievement of economic and social progress for its members and for the country.
SIPTU represents workers in both the public and private sector in almost every industry in Ireland and at virtually every level. SIPTU caters for full-time, part-time, permanent, contract and temporary workers, as well as retired and unemployed members.
While it is true that the size of our membership helps to give us strength and influence, the real power of our Union comes from the active involvement of our ordinary members. Our Union structure has been developed to ensure that every member has an opportunity to make his or her voice heard on every issue. Union members are entitled - and expected - to take part in the discussions and the democratic ballots on the matters facing the Union at local and national level. Of course these rights as a member of the Union carry with them a responsibility to abide by the decisions determined by the democratic process. So once a vote is taken, members are expected to respect the majority decision.
It is this concept of collective action - based on the principle that unity is strength - that enables the Union to act to best effect.