Engagement between SIPTU and the National Parks and Wildlife Services (NPWS) has resulted in agreements which have seen nearly a 40% increase in the number of staff stewarding our National Parks and in other roles over the last four years.
Further recruitment is planned for the Burren and Connemara National Parks as well as a new National Park in County Kerry which has been designated by the Government.
SIPTU Shop Steward and Killarney National Park General Operative, Eamon Kennedy, said: “NPWS has engaged with SIPTU representatives on staffing levels across the different grades, including General Operative, Craft, Forepersons, Guides and Supervisor Guide, with a view to future-proofing staffing of its current services and ensuring the numbers are there for our newest National Park.”
He added: “The increase in staff has been achieved through negotiations at the State level at the National Joint Industrial Council and through direct negotiations in individual workplaces.”