Press Releases 2020

SIPTU NEC recommends acceptance of proposals for a new public service agreement

17 December 2020

The National Executive Council (NEC) of SIPTU met today (Thursday, 17th December) to consider the proposals for an agreement on pay and related matters in the public service.
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Unions confirm escalation of industrial dispute at Newry, Mourne and Down District Council after mediated talks collapse due to management intransigence

14 December 2020

Members of all four staff trade unions, Unite, GMB, NIPSA and SIPTU, will commence work-to-rule from January 4th, second 24-hour strike date confirmed for January 27th. Councillors warned that work-to-rule will result in severe disruption to council services as authority is hugely dependent on overtime and informal working practices.
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Public service unions and employers agree proposals for a two-year agreement

11 December 2020

Representatives of public service unions and employers have agreed proposals for a two-year agreement to succeed the Public Service Stability Agreement (PSSA), which expires at the end of this month. The main elements of the proposed agreement were outlined by union negotiators at a meeting of the ICTU Public Services Committee (PSC) today (Friday) after negotiations at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) concluded in the early hours of this morning.
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SIPTU welcomes new hourly rate of €11.20 for contract cleaners

10 December 2020

SIPTU members have welcomed a new hourly rate of €11.20 and an Employment Regulation Order (ERO) for contract cleaners. The 40 cent increase was confirmed by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, and will be delivered to workers when the ERO comes into effect on Friday, 18th December.
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Unions make significant breakthrough on pay justice claim for Section 39 workers

10 December 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Thursday, 10th December) confirmed that unions have made a significant breakthrough on pay restoration for members in 250 State-funded voluntary health and social service providers. The positive development for workers in these Section 39 employments follows a conciliation conference held under the auspices of the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
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SIPTU welcomes key recommendations of Arts and Culture Taskforce report

10 December 2020

SIPTU members have welcomed the recommendations contained in the recently published Report of the Arts and Culture Recovery Taskforce, ‘A Life Worth Living’, which can assist the sector to recover from the impact of the Covid-19 crisis.
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SIPTU to discuss childcare professionals’ pay with Minister for Children and IBEC

10 December 2020

SIPTU has today (Thursday, 10th December) accepted an invitation from the Minister for Children, Equality Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderic O'Gorman, to discuss pay and conditions for childcare workers with him and the employers’ representative group, IBEC.
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STOP67 campaign welcomes removal of pension age increase in Social Welfare Bill

09 December 2020

The STOP67 campaign has welcomed the removal of the pension age increase to 67 years on 1st January next in the Social Welfare Bill which will be debated in the Dáil today (9th December, 2020).
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Strike action to proceed at Newry, Mourne and Down District Council as last minute talks collapse after management fail to address workers’ pay equality

02 December 2020

Members of all four staff trade unions, Unite, GMB, NIPSA and SIPTU, forced into picket lines from 6am tomorrow [Thursday, December 3rd]
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SIPTU confirms new collective agreement for independent live action film and television crew

07 December 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (7th December) confirmed that proposals for a new collective agreement for live action film and television crew have been accepted in a ballot of union members.
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SIPTU supports decision to keep third level lectures online for rest of academic year

30 November 2020

SIPTU representatives have said that the decision to keep third level lectures online for the rest of the academic year provides certainty for staff and students.
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SIPTU confirms first round of work stoppages in Section 39 organisations

26 November 2020

SIPTU representatives have confirmed the start of a nation-wide campaign of industrial action by members in Section 39 organisations resulting from a dispute involving the failure of the HSE to honour an agreement to restore the pay of these workers.
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SIPTU calls for Government action on dangerous conditions in meat processing industry

25 November 2020

SIPTU representatives have called on the Government to immediately introduce key changes relating to workplace safety in the meat processing industry following the publication of new report revealing a “systemic culture” of dangerous working conditions in the sector.
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Workers at Newry, Mourne and Down District Council first day of strike action set for Thursday 3rd December

20 November 2020

All four staff trade unions, Unite, GMB, NIPSA and SIPTU, agree first twenty-four hour action to defend pay and conditions
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SIPTU members in Section 39 organisations to commence industrial action

19 November 2020

SIPTU members in CoAction and South Doc, which are HSE funded services based in county Cork and Kerry, have voted in favour of industrial action as part of a country-wide campaign for pay restoration by workers in Section 39 organisations.
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SIPTU report shows pay for childcare workers is far behind international levels

18 November 2020

SIPTU has published research today (Wednesday, 18th November), which indicates that workers employed in the Early Years sector in Ireland are paid far less than their counterparts in other countries.
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Equity welcomes basic income scheme for Arts’ workers

17 November 2020

Irish Equity has welcomed the proposal to introduce a basic income scheme for workers in the Arts sector. The scheme is among a range of supports for artists and performers which are proposed in the report of the Arts and Culture Recovery Task Force and which was accepted by the Government today.
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SIPTU seeks redeployment by Rehab Enterprises of Smiles Newsagents workers

16 November 2020

SIPTU representatives are seeking the redeployment by Rehab Enterprises of workers employed by Smiles Newsagents who have been informed that they will lose their jobs by the end of the year.
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SIPTU seeks urgent meeting to discuss threat of redundancies at Valeo Vision Systems

13 November 2020

SIPTU representatives are seeking an urgent meeting with management at Valeo Vision Systems in Tuam, county Galway, following a decision by the company to make 60 staff redundant.
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SIPTU calls for greater protection for Early Years educators

04 November 2020

SIPTU representatives have written, to the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, Roderick O’Gorman, to call for greater protections from Covid-19 infection for childcare professionals.
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STOP67 campaign disappointed at composition of Pension Commission

04 November 2020

The STOP67 coalition has expressed its disappointment at the failure of the Government to appoint enough members to the Pension Commission who reflect the interests of those most affected by the proposed pension age increase and in particular organisations representing women and older people. The Coalition, which includes the National Women’s Council of Ireland (NWCI), SIPTU, Age Action and Active Retirement Ireland, mounted an effective campaign during the general election campaign against the proposed pension age increase to 67 from next January.
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SIPTU calls for Government assistance for aviation workers following flight cancellations

28 October 2020

SIPTU representatives have called on the Government to provide immediate assistance to aviation workers in regional airports following the announcement by Ryanair, today (Wednesday, 28th October), that it intends to cancel all flights from Cork, Shannon and Knock airports for four weeks during November.
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SIPTU seeks urgent meeting with HSE over its use of unsafe sanitiser

25 October 2020

SIPTU representatives have called for an urgent meeting with the management of the HSE following the shocking revelation that patients and staff have, for several months, been using an unsafe hand sanitiser at health facilities across the country.
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SIPTU calls on Odeon Cinemas to enter into negotiations on proposed restructuring

21 October 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Wednesday, 21st October) called on the management of Odeon Cinemas to enter into negotiations with its members concerning a proposed restructuring of the entertainment company due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.
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SIPTU members in BorgWarner in Tralee vote to accept improved redundancy offer

20 October 2020

SIPTU members employed at the car parts manufacturer, BorgWarner in Tralee, county Kerry, have today (Tuesday, 20th October) voted to accept improved redundancy terms.
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SIPTU demands adequate protection from Covid-19 infection for childcare professionals

20 October 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Tuesday, 20th October) demanded that the Government and employers take immediate action to ensure that workers in the childcare sector are provided with adequate protection from Covid-19 infection.
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SIPTU calls for improved working conditions in childcare to stem Covid-19 infections

19 October 2020

SIPTU representatives have called for improved working conditions in childcare services in order to reduce the level of Covid-19 infections occurring in these facilities which a HSE survey has found to be running at twice the level of primary and secondary schools.
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SIPTU members in Premier Periclase Ltd vote to accept proposals to end strike

16 October 2020

SIPTU members in Premier Periclase Ltd in Drogheda, county Louth, have today (Friday, 16th October) voted to accept proposals contained in a Labour Court recommendation and bring to an end a long running strike at the magnesium production plant.
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SIPTU says Budget failed to deal with long-term funding for Third Level education

15 October 2020

SIPTU representatives have said that the measures for funding further and higher education announced in Budget 2021 yesterday (Tuesday, 13th October), deal with short term issues related to the Covid-19 crisis but not the long-term funding of the sector.
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SIPTU says Budget 2021 fails to deal with impact of the Covid-19 crisis on public transport

14 October 2020

SIPTU representatives have said that the additional €1 billion investment in public transport announced in Budget 2021 will not be sufficient to deal with the massive impact of the Covid-19 crisis on oil services.
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SIPTU says Budget 2021 has failed to support Aviation workers affected by COVID-19 crisis

14 October 2020

SIPTU Aviation Sector Organiser, Neil McGowan, said: “Workers in the aviation industry across the country have suffered a huge loss of employment and a devastating decrease in working hours and earnings due to the collapse in passenger numbers as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
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Irish Equity calls for more support for Arts workers

14 October 2020

Irish Equity has said that Budget 2021 does not provide enough support for artists, theatre and entertainment workers.
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SIPTU says that Budget 2021 fails to address the crisis in the childcare sector

13 October 2020

SIPTU representatives have said that Budget 2021 has failed to address the crisis of low pay for workers and high fees for families in the childcare sector.
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SIPTU says linking budget funding increases to reform will ensure equitable recovery

13 October 2020

SIPTU has called for the increased funding in Budget 2021 to assist the sectors worst hit by the Covid-19 pandemic to be linked to reforms to ensure improved working conditions and an equitable recovery.
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SIPTU calls for EU and UK free trade agreement which delivers for working people

13 October 2020

SIPTU has joined with unions across Europe to call on the negotiators of a new EU and UK free trade agreement to prioritise the interests of working people and ensure the maintenance of employment.
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SIPTU wants faster implementation of Covid-19 Committee recommendations on meat industry

09 October 2020

SIPTU representatives have called for the faster implementation of the recommendations of the Oireachtas Special Committee on the Covid-19 Response in relation to the meat industry, which were released today (Friday, 9th October).
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STOP67 demands immediate removal of law to increase pension age

09 October 2020

The STOP67 campaign played a major role in the decision of the Government to defer the proposed increase in the pension age to 67 years. The campaign includes SIPTU, the National Women’s Council of Ireland (NCWI), Age Action and Active Retirement Ireland.
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SIPTU calls for mandatory sick pay scheme to cover full income of ill workers

09 October 2020

SIPTU economist, Michael Taft, has called for the introduction of a mandatory sick pay scheme which ensures that workers receive their full income while they are out of work due to illness.
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SIPTU welcomes Dáil debate on collective bargaining

08 October 2020

SIPTU Deputy General Secretary, Gerry McCormack, has said that robust and comprehensive legislation to grant collective bargaining rights to workers in Ireland is urgent, particularly in light of the Covid-19 crisis and Brexit.
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Targeted industrial action campaign planned across Section 39 organisations

07 October 2020

SIPTU, Fórsa and INMO representatives held an emergency meeting today (Wednesday, 7th October) to agree the next steps in a targeted campaign of industrial action to secure pay justice for thousands of Section 39 workers.
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Targeted industrial action campaign planned across Section 39 organisations

07 October 2020

SIPTU, Fórsa and INMO representatives held an emergency meeting today (Wednesday, 7th October) to agree the next steps in a targeted campaign of industrial action to secure pay justice for thousands of Section 39 workers.
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SIPTU calls for EU agricultural payments to be linked to working conditions

07 October 2020

SIPTU representatives have written to the Minister for Agriculture, Charlie McConalogue, calling on him to call for the linking of payments to employers in the sector to the provision of proper working conditions for employees during current Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) negotiations.
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SIPTU welcomes payment for construction workers isolating due to Covid-19

25 September 2020

SIPTU representatives have welcomed confirmation by the trustees of the Construction Workers Pension Scheme (CWPS) that workers isolating due to Covid-19 will have access to the scheme if a doctor confirms their isolation and the period involved.
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SIPTU calls for third level education to remain online until Christmas

05 October 2020

SIPTU representatives have called for clarity concerning Covid-19 guidelines for the third level education sector and for the continuation of online learning until the Christmas break.
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SIPTU representatives demand management urgently addresses concerns of St John of God's workers

01 October 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Thursday, 1st October) called on the management of St John of God's and the Health Service Executive (HSE) to immediately address the concerns of union members over jobs and the future provision of its services.
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SIPTU condemns failure of Government to honour promise to support Shannon Heritage sites

30 September 2020

SIPTU members have condemned the failure of the Government to meet a commitment to provide €2.6 million in funding to keep open King John’s Castle in Limerick City and Bunratty Castle in County Clare until the end of the year.
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SIPTU refers dispute over movement of paramedic interns to the WRC

28 September 2020

SIPTU representatives have referred a dispute concerning the movement of 13 paramedic interns from ambulance stations in Dublin and the north-east to the south of the country, to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
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SIPTU condemns decision to discontinue vital Bus Eireann Expressway routes

28 September 2020

SIPTU Sector Organiser, John Murphy, has described the decision taken today by Bus Eireann to discontinue several of its high profile expressway routes as “short sighted, flawed and a kick in the teeth for workers and passengers”. Among the routes to be affected are Dublin to Cork, Limerick and Galway.
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SIPTU representatives demand urgent engagement with HSE over Winter Service Plan

24 September 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Thursday, 24th September) demanded an urgent meeting with the management of the Health Service Executive (HSE) over the concerns of union members over its ability to deliver on the effective implementation of the Winter Service Plan 2020.
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SIPTU/USI survey raises questions over future of Early Years workforce

23 September 2020

Only one third of Early Childhood Education and Care students intend to work in an early years setting according to a new survey published today (Wednesday, 23rd September) by SIPTU and the Union of Students in Ireland (USI)
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SIPTU accuses government of reneging on Section 39 pay justice deal

23 September 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Wednesday, 23rd September) accused the Government of reneging on a pay restoration agreement for essential workers employed in over 250 Section 39 organisations providing frontline health and social care services.
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SIPTU Dublin Fire Brigade members highlight staffing and ambulance shortages

22 September 2020

SIPTU firefighters in the Dublin Fire Brigade (DFB) have highlighted continuing staffing and ambulance shortages which are seriously undermining the effectiveness of the vital frontline service.
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Sisters of Charity workers continue campaign for a fair redundancy package

18 September 2020

Sisters of Charity workers gathering today (Friday, 18th September) for a socially distanced protest outside St Monica’s Nursing Home in Dublin have said that their #PayUpSisters campaign will continue until a just and reasonable outcome is achieved.
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SIPTU and meat processors agree safety protocol for workers in the industry

18 September 2020

Representatives of SIPTU and Meat Industry Ireland (MII), an employers' umbrella grouping, have this afternoon (Friday, 18th September) agreed a wide-ranging safety protocol for workers in the meat processing industry which is aimed at suppressing Covid-19 infections at plants.
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SIPTU Construction members vote for strike action to protect pay rates in the sector

16 September 2020

The members of the SIPTU Construction Sector have overwhelmingly voted for industrial action in the event that employers fail to pay a 2.7% increase due on the 1st October, 2020.
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SIPTU calls for urgent restoration of mass Covid-19 testing in meat industry

10 September 2020

SIPTU Divisional Organiser, Greg Ennis, has called for the immediate recommencement of Covid-19 testing for workers in the meat processing industry.
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SIPTU calls for largescale investment programme in new Progressive Fiscal Framework

10 September 2020

SIPTU has launched a comprehensive fiscal policy that seeks to meet the challenges facing the economy and society from threats such as the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, Brexit and the climate crisis in a manner which will produce a more equitable country.
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SIPTU says new Government policy fails to address failures in domestic waste collection

07 September 2020

SIPTU has stated that the Government’s new waste collection policy fails to address the critical problem of almost a quarter of households in the country having no domestic waste collection service.
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SIPTU calls for Living Wage and sick pay for childcare workers in pre-budget submission

07 September 2020

SIPTU has included a demand for a mandatory Living Wage and sick pay scheme for workers as part of its pre-budget submission for the childcare sector, launched today (Monday, 7th September). The measures are designed to ensure that children and families are offered the best protection possible during the Covid-19 crisis.
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SIPTU members in BorgWarner in Tralee support intervention by WRC in dispute

04 September 2020

SIPTU members employed at the car parts manufacturer BorgWarner in Tralee, county Kerry, have today (Friday, 4th September) indicated their support for the intervention of the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) in a dispute concerning redundancy entitlements.
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SIPTU calls on Minister for Agriculture to save thousands of jobs in the forestry sector

03 September 2020

SIPTU representatives have called for immediate action from the new Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, to resolve problems in the regulatory and licencing system for tree felling that could result in thousands of job losses.
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SIPTU members in St. Vincent’s Centre to transfer employment to COPE Foundation

03 September 2020

SIPTU members in the St. Vincent’s Centre in Cork City are to transfer their employment to the COPE Foundation, which will result in improved terms and conditions of work and the maintenance of its vital services for residents.
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SIPTU seeks clarity on safety measures for third level students and staff

02 September 2020

SIPTU representatives have written today (Wednesday, 2nd September) to the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris, seeking clarification on the public health guidelines for the return of students and staff to third level campuses.
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Sisters of Charity workers to hold public protest tomorrow

01 September 2020

Sisters of Charity workers will hold a protest tomorrow (Wednesday, 2nd September) to highlight their demands for an urgent meeting with management to negotiate a fair redundancy package and protect services in the community.
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SIPTU condemns NAS management for failure to pay members’ wages in full

01 September 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Tuesday, 1st September) condemned the National Ambulance Service (NAS) management for failing to pay emergency medical technicians (EMTs) their full wages due to staff shortages in the payroll department.
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SIPTU members condemn management threat to jobs in Premier Periclase dispute

26 August 2020

SIPTU representatives have condemned a threat by management to the jobs of members employed at the Premier Periclase magnesium products plant in Drogheda, county Louth, who have been on strike since Monday, 17th August.
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SIPTU refers dispute at BorgWarner in Tralee to Workplace Relations Commission

24 August 2020

SIPTU representatives have referred a dispute concerning redundancy payments a car parts manufacturer BorgWarner in Tralee, county Kerry, to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
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SIPTU members in Leo Pharma end dispute after sacked colleagues offered return to work

21 August 2020

SIPTU members have resolved a dispute at the Leo Pharma pharmaceutical manufacturing plant in Crumlin, Dublin 12, after the company offered five of their colleagues the opportunity to return to work following their sacking in June which contravened a collective agreement.
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SIPTU calls on Irish Hotels Federation to clarify position on Covid-19 regulation breaches

21 August 2020

SIPTU representatives have sought clarification from the Irish Hotel Federation (IHF) on its position on breaches of the Government’s Covid-19 regulations following the announcement of a Gardai investigation into the Oireachtas Golf Society event held in a Galway Hotel.
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SIPTU welcomes funding for Bunratty Castle and Kings John’s Castle to remain open throughout 2020

20 August 2020

SIPTU members have given a cautious welcome to the decision of the Government to provide funding to ensure that the cultural sites, King John’s Castle in Limerick City and Bunratty Castle in County Clare remain open until the end of 2020.
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SIPTU calls for implementation of nursing home expert panel recommendations

19 August 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Wednesday, 19th August) called for the immediate implementation of the recommendations contained in the report of the COVID-19 Nursing Homes Expert Panel if the private sector is to continue to play a role in the delivery of elder care.
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Workers demand meeting with Sisters of Charity at protest in Dublin today

19 August 2020

Workers employed at three institutions run by the Sisters of Charity highlighted their demand for management to meet them and negotiate the payment of a fair redundancy package, in a protest outside St Monica’s Nursing Home on Belvedere Place, Dublin 1, this afternoon (Wednesday, 19th August).
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SIPTU members call on Government to keep Shannon Heritage cultural sites open

18 August 2020

SIPTU members are calling on the Government to provide funding to ensure that the cultural sites, King John’s Castle in Limerick City and Bunratty Castle in County Clare, which are operated by Shannon Heritage remain open past the 31st August.
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SIPTU members in Leo Pharma in Dublin begin industrial action

17 August 2020

SIPTU members at the Leo Pharma pharmaceutical manufacturing plant in Kimmage, Dublin 12, began a campaign of industrial action this morning (Monday, 17th August) at 6.00 a.m. following an attempt by management to sack five workers in breach of a collective agreement.
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SIPTU members to strike at Premier Periclase in Drogheda due to shutdown threat

14 August 2020

SIPTU members employed by Premier Periclase, a magnesium products plant in Drogheda, county Louth, will commence strike action on Monday 17th August, in a dispute resulting from a proposal to shutdown the plant without agreement with its workers.
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Unions call on HSE to protect services for Sister of Charity residents

14 August 2020

SIPTU, the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) and Fórsa Trade Union representatives have today (Friday, 14th August) called on the Health Service Executive to protect services for residents and families at the Caritas Convalescent Centre, St. Mary’s Centre Telford and St. Monica’s Nursing Home in Dublin.
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SIPTU awaits full response from Sisters Of Charity on redundancy payments for workers

13 August 2020

SIPTU representatives have said they have received an initial response from the Sisters Of Charity to their call for discussions on the issues arising for employees from the decision to place into liquidation the Caritas Convalescent Centre, St. Mary’s Centre Telford and St. Monica’s Nursing Home in Dublin.
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SIPTU hold emergency meeting with Naas General Hospital management

11 August 2020

SIPTU representatives today (Tuesday, 11th August) held an emergency meeting with Naas General Hospital management following a reported outbreak of Covid-19 among staff at the hospital.
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Union representatives to meet KPMG liquidators to discuss a fair redundancy package for St Monica’s workers

11 August 2020

Union representatives have tonight (Tuesday, 11th August) confirmed that representatives from SIPTU, the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) and Fórsa Trade Union representatives will meet with KPMG, the provisional liquidator of the St. Monica’s Nursing Home tomorrow (Wednesday, 12th August) in Dublin.
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SIPTU condemns attempt by Debenhams to sack 40 workers at its Belfast store

11 August 2020

SIPTU has condemned the attempt by the management of the Debenhams store in Belfast to sack 40 workers, today (Tuesday, 11th August), without any consultation and has called for the immediate reinstatement of the effected staff.
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Union representatives demand emergency meeting with Sisters of Charity management

10 August 2020

SIPTU, Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) and Fórsa Trade Union representatives have today (Monday 10th August) written to Sisters of Charity management seeking an emergency meeting to discuss the payment of a fair redundancy package to staff in Caritas Convalescent Centre, St. Mary’s Centre Telford and St. Monica’s Nursing Home.
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SIPTU and meat producers to seek meeting with the HSE to discuss improved testing at plants

10 August 2020

SIPTU has called for the acceptance of a charter fully outlining adequate Covid-19 prevention procedures at Irish meat plants following a meeting between union and industry representatives in Dublin today (Monday, 10th August), where it was agreed to jointly seek a meeting with the HSE.
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Irish Equity concerned at remarks by Minister for Social Protection about artists

05 August 2020

Irish Equity members have welcomed the clarification by the Minister for Social Protection, Community and Rural Development, Heather Humphreys, on her earlier comments made last weekend regarding the future expectations of work within the Arts in Ireland.
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SIPTU general secretary expresses sincere condolences on death of ‘extraordinary’ John Hume

03 August 2020

SIPTU General Secretary, Joe Cunningham, has offered his sincere condolences to the wife and family of John Hume who did so much to promote civil rights, justice and peace during his extraordinary life-time.
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SIPTU members express anger and hurt at “lazy” comments by Marc McSharry TD

31 July 2020

SIPTU members have reacted with anger, disappointment and hurt at the comments made by Fianna Fáil TD, Marc MacSharry who has accused public servants of laziness during the Covid-19 crisis.
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SIPTU meets with BorgWarner management to discuss closure of Tralee plant

30 July 2020

SIPTU representatives met with the management of BorgWarner today (Thursday, 30th July) to discuss the company’s decision to close its manufacturing plant in Tralee, county Kerry.
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SIPTU supports forum to examine issues in third level education sector

29 July 2020

SIPTU members have supported a government commitment to establish a Third Level Policy Forum which will include representatives of the Government, students, trade unions and further and higher level institutions.
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SIPTU members to discuss future of public water service

29 July 2020

SIPTU representatives who provide vital public water services will today discuss the future status of Irish Water today following confirmation from the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien, that he is seeking an agreed outcome with trade unions on the establishment of a single public utility.
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SIPTU to meet BorgWarner management over planned closure of Tralee plant

28 July 2020

SIPTU members at the BorgWarner manufacturing plant in Tralee, county Kerry, have expressed their shock and concern at the decision by the company to cease production of electric air heaters by the end of the year and to close the factory.
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SIPTU seeks urgent talks with management of St Marys nursing home

24 July 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Friday, 24th July) called for an urgent meeting with the management of St Marys, Telford in south Dublin. The call comes following a meeting between management and a liquidator.
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SIPTU seeks oversight by worker representatives of stimulus grants

23 July 2020

SIPTU General Secretary, Joe Cunningham, has asked the Government to ensure that workers and their representatives are involved in the distribution and monitoring of the grants and subsidies included in the €5 billion stimulus plan announced today.
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SIPTU says Covid-19 crisis has exposed serious flaws in third level funding model

22 July 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Wednesday, 22nd July) cautiously welcomed an announcement of increased emergency funding for the third level sector to deal with issues arising from the Covid-19 crisis.
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SIPTU to discuss Covid-19 infection rates among healthcare workers at Oireachtas Committee

20 July 2020

SIPTU representatives will attend the Oireachtas Covid-19 Committee tomorrow (Tuesday, 21st July) to discuss coronavirus infection rates among healthcare workers.
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SIPTU survey shows sharp drop in income for childcare workers since return to work

20 July 2020

A SIPTU survey of workers in the childcare sector, released today (Monday, 20th July), has indicated that many have suffered significant pay cuts since returning to work last month following the closure of services due to the Covid-19 crisis
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SIPTU demands strong and concentrated government action to deal with issues across the community sector

20 July 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Monday, 20th July) demanded strong and concentrated action from the Government to deal with long standing issues facing workers in the community and voluntary sector.
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SIPTU argues against blank cheque for hospitality employers

16 July 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Thursday, 16th July) insisted that any stimulus package for the hospitality sector must not be a blank cheque for employers.
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SIPTU members at Aer Lingus reject management’s pay and job proposals

14 July 2020

SIPTU members at Aer Lingus have voted by 55% to 45% to reject the Covid-19 crisis recovery plan proposed by the airline.
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SIPTU warns of strike action if pay and conditions of construction workers are undermined

14 July 2020

SIPTU representatives have warned construction companies that its members will conduct strike action if there is any attempt to undermine workers’ agreed wages and conditions in the wake of a High Court decision to strike down parts of the Industrial Relations Amendment Act 2015.
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SIPTU calls for uniform approach on ‘face to face’ teaching in higher-level institutions

13 July 2020

SIPTU representatives have called on the Government to co-ordinate the approach of higher-level education institutions in relation to the delivery of ‘face-to face’ teaching when students return in September to ensure all adhere with public health advice.
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SIPTU activists protest outside banks in Navan against Covid-19 interest charges

13 July 2020

Members of the SIPTU Meath District Council are protesting outside four bank branches in Navan, county Meath, today (Monday, 13thJuly) between 12.00 noon and 2.00 p.m., to show their opposition to the charging of interest on loans and mortgages suspended due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
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SIPTU members in the FAI support reform of the organisation

10 July 2020

SIPTU members employed by the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) support the full implementation of a memorandum of understanding concerning the organisation’s future which includes the appointment of six new independent directors.
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SIPTU angered at exclusion from Covid-19 Committee meeting on meat processing industry

10 July 2020

SIPTU members have been angered by the exclusion of union representatives from appearing at the Oireachtas Special Committee on Covid-19 Response which will discuss the situation in the meat processing industry today (Friday, 10th July).
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SIPTU members call on Shannon Group to re-open historic sites

08 July 2020

SIPTU members held a general meeting in the courtyard of King John’s Castle in Limerick City on Tuesday 7th July to discuss the threat of closure for the historic site and others operated by the Shannon Group.
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Shannon Airport Group of Unions rejects company recovery plan

07 July 2020

Representatives of the Shannon Airport Group of Unions today (7th July) called for immediate discussions with management following its announcement that the company intends to cut pay by up to 20% until April 2023.
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SIPTU warns employers over SEO rates of pay and protections for construction workers

25 June 2020

SIPTU Construction Sector Organiser, John Regan, has called on the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) to confirm that the next pay increase of 2.7% due to construction workers on the 1st October will be paid and that all the terms of the Sectoral Employment Order (SEO) for the industry will be honoured in full. His call follows the decision of the High Court on Tuesday, 23rd June to strike down the SEO.
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SIPTU pays tribute to public service workers on UN Public Service Day

23 June 2020

SIPTU representatives joined with trade unions across Europe today (Tuesday, 23rd June) to celebrate the contribution of public service workers on United Nations Public Service Day.
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SIPTU Health representatives to tell Oireachtas Covid-19 Committee of flawed government approach to childcare

22 June 2020

SIPTU representatives will meet the Special Oireachtas Committee on Covid-19 tomorrow (Tuesday, 23rd June) to discuss the issue of childcare for essential health workers during the health crisis.
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Irish Equity says support measures for the Arts do not go far enough

22 June 2020

Irish Equity has today (Monday, 22nd June) called on the Government to put artists and arts workers first in planning for the recovery.
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Irish Equity welcomes additional €25 million funding for Arts sector

17 June 2020

Irish Equity has welcomed the announcement by the Government of vital additional funding for the arts and cultural sector, amounting to a total of €25 million. This will bring funding for the Arts Council in 2020 to €100 million.
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SIPTU describes as ‘unacceptable’ Aer Lingus action on pay and jobs

16 June 2020

SIPTU representatives have described as unacceptable a decision by Aer Lingus to withdraw proposals aimed at averting pay reductions and job losses.
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STOP67 campaign welcomes deferral of pension age increase

16 June 2020

The deferral of the pension age increase to 67 contained in the Programme for Government has been welcomed by the Stop67 campaign.
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SIPTU says Programme for Government contains positive proposals but falls short on key issues

15 June 2020

SIPTU General Secretary, Joe Cunningham, has said that the proposed Programme for Government published today by Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party contains initiatives which can improve the lives of working people and their families but falls short in relation to policies on key issues including housing, childcare and collective bargaining rights.
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SIPTU calls on CIF to ensure members availing of state subsidy scheme are paying workers full rates

12 June 2020

SIPTU has today called on the Construction Industry Federation to ensure its members are fully compliant with the Sectoral Employment Order (SEO), and Collective Agreements. The union is warning employers that they cannot avoid full compliance during the pandemic crisis. John Regan, SIPTU Sector Organiser for the Construction Sector said that, “There is emerging evidence that some employers who are using the temporary wage subsidy scheme are not topping up payments to meet the legally binding gross rate of pay for construction workers
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SIPTU: Childcare Reopening Funding Fall Short for Educators

10 June 2020

Funding for the reopening of childcare services, announced today (10th June) by the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, has failed to address the major issues facing Early Years Educators, according to SIPTU.
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SIPTU welcomes early reopening of major Tourist attractions in Mid-West

10 June 2020

Two of the most important tourist attractions in the Mid-West, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park and King John’s Castle, Limerick, will reopen their doors to the public from June 29th instead of July 20th. SIPTU has welcomed the decision, which is in line with changes to the road map for recovery announced by the Government on 4th June.
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SIPTU has called on Shannon Heritage to reopen fully and give regional tourism a much needed boost

05 June 2020

SIPTU representatives have met with Shannon Heritage over its decision not to reopen its’ sites on a fulltime basis, contrary to the Government’s return to work protocol.
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SIPTU seeks urgent meeting with Debenhams’ management over mass redundancies

03 June 2020

SIPTU is seeking an urgent meeting with Debenhams senior management in Northern Ireland to discuss the plight of workers who have been sacked without consultation or notice.
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SIPTU concerned at Shannon Heritage decision not to reopen sites on a full-time basis

03 June 2020

SIPTU representatives are to meet with Shannon Heritage, one of Ireland’s leading heritage tourism operators tomorrow (Thursday 4th June) over its decision not to reopen sites on a full-time basis in line with the Government’s return to work protocol.
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Irish Equity endorses the National Campaign for the Arts (NCFA) National Arts Recovery Plan

02 June 2020

Irish Equity today wholeheartedly endorsed the recovery programme which has been launched by the National Campaign for the Arts (NCFA) to ensure that the long term damage caused by the Covid-19 pandemic to the sector is minimised. Karan O’Loughlin, Irish Equity Organiser, said that it wished to acknowledge “the widespread consultation and painstaking research undertaken by the many NCFA volunteers in drafting this National Arts Recovery Plan.
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SIPTU welcomes the commitment from Minister Harris to address Union members concerns over the availability of infection rate data

02 June 2020

This morning, (Tuesday, 2nd June) SIPTU representatives held a highly productive meeting with the Minister for Health, Simon Harris, at which union officials outlined the serious concerns members have over the need for full and transparent data to be made available concerning the 7,900 health workers who have contracted the Covid-19 virus.
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SIPTU says health workers have a right to the truth

01 June 2020

SIPTU Health Division representatives have today (Monday, 1st June) called on the Minister for Health, Simon Harris to ensure information relating to the Covid-19 infection rates of all health workers is released without delay.
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Worker representatives needed on Tourism Task Force to ensure a safe reopening of the sector

01 June 2020

SIPTU Hospitality Sector Organiser Martin O’Rourke has criticised the decision of the Government not to include worker representatives on the recently established Task Force charged with providing a safe, quality environment in which the hospitality industry can reopen safely during the current Covid-19 pandemic. He said that a survey of members showed widespread concern at the risks they face, as well as continuing problems over sexual harassment and bullying that urgently need to be addressed.
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SIPTU calls on Programme for Government negotiators to stop pension age increase

28 May 2020

SIPTU representatives have called on Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Green Party to ensure that the deferral of the planned pension age increase to 67 next year is included in any agreed Programme for Government.
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SIPTU members seek mandatory face covering for public transport

15 May 2020

SIPTU transport representatives have called for the mandatory introduction of face masks for passengers using public bus, rail and tram services. They said that its members are disappointed at the announcement today (Friday, 15th May) by An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, that the Government is to issue an ‘advisory notice’ to the public to wear face coverings.
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SIPTU demands a voice for health workers on Nursing Home Expert Panel

24 May 2020

SIPTU Health representatives have today (Sunday 24th, May) condemned the failure of Government to include a voice for health workers on the Nursing Home Expert Panel, established by Minister for Health, Simon Harris, in response to the performance of the sector dealing with the Covid-19 outbreak.
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SIPTU representatives call on Aer Lingus to ensure current pay arrangements continue

22 May 2020

SIPTU representatives at Aer Lingus have called on the company to continue with current pay arrangements following a statement by the company that it will unilaterally cut pay and working hours after 21st June.
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TUF agrees additional layer of protection for construction workers with CIF

21 May 2020

The Trade Union Federation, comprising Ireland's largest construction unions, SIPTU, BATU and Connect have signed a landmark agreement with the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) to ensure the safety of workers across the industry.
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SIPTU and MRCI complain to HSA over its failure to inspect meat plants

20 May 2020

SIPTU representatives and the Migrants Rights Council of Ireland (MRCI) have written to the chief executive of the Health And Safety Authority (HSA) to complain about its failure to carry out inspections in meat plants across the country where there have been more than 850 cases of Coronavirus. The union and the MRCI were responding to remarks made to the Oireachtas committee on Covid-19 yesterday by the chief executive of the HSA, Dr Sharon McGuinness.
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SIPTU demands government action to combat the rising numbers of health workers testing positive for Covid-19

18 May 2020

SIPTU Health Division representatives have today (Monday, 18th May) demanded that the Government publishes a full and transparent breakdown of the health settings where over 7,600 workers have now tested positive for Covid-19.
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SIPTU seeks urgent meeting with National Pen management over proposed redundancies

18 May 2020

SIPTU representatives have requested an urgent meeting with the management of National Pen following last week’s announcement of the loss of 176 jobs in its Dundalk call centre.
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SIPTU calls for discussions with daa over planned reduction in numbers employed in Dublin and Cork airports

19 May 2020

SIPTU representatives have called for urgent discussions with the management of the Dublin Airport Authority (daa) after the announcement today that the company is seeking to reduce the workforce in Dublin and Cork airports by up to 1000 people.
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Speech by Ethel Buckley, SIPTU Deputy General Secretary at the James Connolly Commemoration, Arbour Hill Dublin on Sunday 17th May, 2020

17 May 2020

On this day we remember the most significant revolutionary in the history of the Irish trade union, socialist and republican movements. James Connolly was also a leading progressive voice in the global struggle for worker’s rights in the first decades of the last century and up to his death at the age of 47 on May 12th 1916.
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Construction unions call on employers to ensure extra protections for workers

17 May 2020

The Trade Union Federation (TUF), which includes SIPTU, BATU and CONNECT trade unions, have called on construction employers to ensure that maximum protection is provided for workers when they return to work tomorrow.
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SIPTU calls for meat industry task force to confront Covid-19

15 May 2020

SIPTU Manufacturing Division Organiser, Greg Ennis, has called for the immediate creation of a ‘Farm to Fork’ meat industry taskforce to deal with the spread of Covid-19, with more than 600 cases of the virus reported in plants across the country.
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SIPTU supports separate department for third level education

13 May 2020

SIPTU’s Education Sector Committee has called for the establishment of a separate government department for third level education and research.
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SIPTU says retention of Department of Children and Youth Affairs is vital

11 May 2020

SIPTU and the Big Start Campaign are calling on political leaders to retain the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA) in order to ensure that issues relevant to children remain a priority at the highest level of government.
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SIPTU calls on councillors to reject proposal to sell Ballymount waste facility

11 May 2020

SIPTU representatives have called on members of Dublin City Council to reject a management proposal to sell a waste recycling facility in Ballymount, Dublin 24, to a private company.
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SIPTU demands Government intervention to protect agency workers

10 May 2020

SIPTU Health representatives have today (Sunday 10th, May) demanded immediate government intervention to ensure that all health workers who are battling to stop the spread of Covid-19 are treated equally.
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SIPTU says government must immediately revise childcare policy for essential workers

05 May 2020

SIPTU Health representatives have today (Tuesday, 5th May) called on the Government to immediately revise the date for the reopening of childcare facilities and to offer a special “annual leave credit” for all health and essential workers.
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Early Years organisations Launch New Model Early Years and School Age Services

01 May 2020

SIPTU along with several other Early Years organisations have today (Friday, 1st May) launched a Model of Early Years and School Age Services which has long term benefits for children, families, the economy and society.
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SIPTU secures pay for student radiographers working on Covid-19 frontline

01 May 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Friday, 1st May) confirmed the union has secured an agreement offering student radiographers working on the frontline of the Covid-19 crisis a paid contract of employment.
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SIPTU calls for detailed discussions on Aer Lingus plans for job losses

01 May 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (1st May) called for detailed discussions with management in Aer Lingus following the announcement that the company intends to cut job numbers by 20%.
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SIPTU calls for temperature testing and PPE for meat and dairy plant workers

01 May 2020

SIPTU representatives have called for the mandatory temperature testing and the provision of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for workers in meat and dairy processing plants following the confirmation of clusters of Covid-19 infections in a number of facilities.
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SIPTU calls for agreement on safety measures before construction return to work

30 April 2020

SIPTU representatives have raised serious concerns with proposed return to work measures for the construction industry and called for agreement on a protocol for the sector which prioritises the safety of workers.
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Unions condemn Bord na Móna move to remove workers from payroll

30 April 2020

The Bord na Móna (BNM) Group of Unions has condemned the decision of management at the semi-state company to attempt to proceed today (Thursday, 30th April) with the removal of workers from its payroll.
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SIPTU and Migrant Rights Centre raise concerns over safety at Liffey Meats in Cavan

28 April 2020

SIPTU and the Migrant Rights Centre Ireland (MRCI) have called on the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) to immediately inspect the Liffey Meats facility in Ballyjamesduff, county Cavan, to ensure its compliance with Covid-19 precautions.
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SIPTU says government childcare plan has caused huge anger on Covid frontline

23 April 2020

SIPTU Health representatives have today (Thursday, 23rd April) said the Government’s plan to meet the childcare needs of health and other essential workers falls well short of what is required by all workers on the frontline of the Covid-19 crisis.
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SIPTU says government should take control of private nursing homes

21 April 2020

SIPTU Health Division Organiser, Paul Bell, has called on the Government to bring the private nursing home sector into State control for the period of the Covid-19 crisis as it did with the private hospitals. According to the Department of Health, some 40% of Covid-19 infections have occurred in the nursing home sector.
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Unions call on board of Bord na Mόna to reject lay-off plans

20 April 2020

The Bord na Mόna (BNM) Group of Unions has condemned proposals to lay-off over 200 workers this week and has called on the board of the semi-state company to reject the plan.
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SIPTU condemns treatment of Debenhams workers in Ireland

20 April 2020

SIPTU representatives have condemned the manner in which Debenhams Retail Ireland Limited has treated its employees and have committed to challenging the manner in which a collective redundancy notice was served by the company. At the request of the company, the High Court appointed provisional joint liquidators over Debenhams on Thursday 15th April. SIPTU and Mandate representatives held a remote meeting with the joint liquidators and management on Friday 16th April to discuss the situation.
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Covid-19: Is the pandemic our ‘1945 moment’?

20 April 2020

New government will need progressive counterweight to centre-right to avoid past mistakes
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SIPTU says childcare wage subsidy scheme important development for Early Years sector

17 April 2020

The SIPTU Big Start National Committee has said that the introduction of the Wage Subsidy Childcare Scheme (WSCS), which was announced yesterday (Thursday, 16th April), will greatly assist in maintaining a skilled workforce in the Early Years sector.
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SIPTU members mourn deaths of two health workers in Kilkenny

16 April 2020

SIPTU Health Division has expressed its condolences to the families of two health workers at St Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny who died after contracting the coronavirus.
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SIPTU and HSE agree redeployment of health workers to private nursing homes

15 April 2020

SIPTU representatives have today confirmed (Wednesday 15th, April) that agreement has been reached with the Health Service Executive (HSE) on the voluntary redeployment of health workers to private nursing homes to assist in their efforts to defeat the Covid-19 virus.
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SIPTU urges immediate action to address growing childcare crisis for essential workers

14 April 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Tuesday, 14th April) demanded that the Government gets to grips with the growing childcare crisis facing health and other essential workers on the frontline of the COVID-19 crisis.
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SIPTU calls for increased support for artists unable to avail of Covid Unemployment Payment

14 April 2020

SIPTU and Irish Equity have written to the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan, calling for the Government to urgently increase the financial support for workers in the Arts sector who have been unable to avail of the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP).
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SIPTU urges immediate action to address growing childcare crisis for essential workers

14 April 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Tuesday, 14th April) demanded that the Government gets to grips with the growing childcare crisis facing health and other essential workers on the frontline of the COVID-19 crisis.
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SIPTU representatives call on Minister for Health to intervene on student radiographers pay

07 April 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Tuesday, 7th April) called on the Minister for Health, Simon Harris to intervene and approve pay for student radiographers working in the health service in the fight against COVID-19.
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SIPTU calls for analysis of COVID-19 positive health settings

04 April 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Saturday, 4th April) requested that public health officials provide a detailed breakdown to Union representatives of the health settings where over 900 workers have now tested positive for COVID-19.
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SIPTU members in Cork County Council operate new Covid-19 Community Support Programme

03 April 2020

SIPTU members employed by Cork County Council will assist vulnerable people in the community with tasks such as grocery shopping and the collection of prescriptions as part of a newly established COVID-19 Community Support Programme.
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TUF serves claim on construction companies for payment of agreed rates during Covid-19 crisis

03 April 2020

The Trade Union Federation (TUF) has served a formal claim on the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) seeking payment for workers of the agreed industry rates during the Covid-19 crisis.
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SIPTU calls for access to Wage Subsidy Scheme for childcare owner managers

02 April 2020

SIPTU representatives have called for owner managers in childcare services to be treated as employees under the Wage Subsidy Scheme, which is administered by the Revenue Commissioners.
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SIPTU welcome calls to prioritise COVID-19 testing of all health workers

02 April 2020

SIPTU Health representatives have today (Thursday, 2nd April) welcomed the call from leading infectious disease specialists calling on the Government to prioritise the testing of all health care workers for COVID-19.
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SIPTU seeks government action to address childcare crisis for all essential workers

31 March 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Tuesday, 31st March) demanded that the Government immediately publishes a strategic and sustainable plan that puts childcare arrangements in place for all essential workers for the duration of the COVID-19 crisis.
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TUF calls for laid off construction workers to receive industry rates during work suspension

30 March 2020

The Trade Union Federation (TUF) has called on companies to ensure laid off construction workers are paid no less than the minimum rates for the industry for the duration of the suspension of their work. The TUF which comprises SIPTU, BATU and Connect trade unions has also called for strict adherence by employers to the instruction by the government to close all non-essential building sites.
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SIPTU calls for reduced passenger numbers on public transport to protect users from COVID-19

27 March 2020

SIPTU Transport Sector Organiser, John Murphy, has called for an immediate reduction of passenger numbers on public transport services in order to protect passengers and staff from the COVID-19 virus. He also called on the National Transport Authority (NTA) to reverse its decision to reduce public transport services from 1st April in order to prevent overcrowding and a breach of social distancing requirements.
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SIPTU calls for ‘fast track’ access for services to COVID-19 childcare scheme

27 March 2020

SIPTU has called for all childcare services in financial difficulty to have ‘fast track’ access to the Early Learning and Care Sustainability Fund, which was announced this week as part of the Government’s response to the COVID-19 crisis.
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SIPTU seeks immediate closure of workplaces and sites where workers are at risk of COVID-19 virus

26 March 2020

SIPTU Deputy General Secretary, Gerry McCormack has said that health and safety standards to protect workers from the Covid-19 virus should be enforced at all construction sites and other workplaces, and if not, they should be immediately closed down.
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SIPTU welcomes COVID-19 Childcare Support Scheme

26 March 2020

SIPTU has welcomed the introduction of a scheme to support the childcare sector during the Covid-19 emergency, the details of which were released yesterday (25th March).
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SIPTU expresses concern over rising number of health workers testing positive for COVID-19

25 March 2020

SIPTU Health representatives have today (Wednesday, 25th March) expressed concerns over the increase in the number of health workers who have tested positive for COVID-19 virus. The numbers confirmed by the Department of Health indicate that health care workers make up 26% of all cases identified in the State.
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SIPTU supports new wage compensation scheme and increase in COVID-19 emergency payment

24 March 2020

SIPTU General Secretary, Joe Cunningham, has welcomed the Government’s wage compensation scheme which was announced today (Tuesday, 24th March) and is intended to retain workers in employment.
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SIPTU raises safety concerns for Early Years educators in Covid-19 childcare scheme

24 March 2020

SIPTU has called on the Government to ensure that any childcare scheme established to provide for the care of the children of frontline staff must fully adhere to advice from HSE on how to limit the spread of infection among childcare workers.
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SIPTU warns COVID-19 Refund scheme too narrow and excludes workers at risk of losing their job

20 March 2020

SIPTU General Secretary, Joe Cunningham has called on the Government to amend the ‘Employer COVID-19 Refund Scheme’, widening its scope and ensuring that workers and employers are given the support they need.
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Irish Equity calls on theatres to maintain pay of staff and artists during crisis

20 March 2020

Irish Equity has called on theatre organisations across the country to follow the example of the Abbey Theatre, which suspended its performances earlier this month and continues to pay staff and artists already contracted for a production.
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SIPTU regrets temporary reduction of working time and wages at Aer Lingus over Covid-19 crisis

19 March 2020

SIPTU and other unions in Aer Lingus have been told that the airline is to reduce working time for the month of April, with the effect that staff earnings will be reduced by 50%.
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SIPTU General Secretary calls for wage subsidy scheme, increased welfare payments and a national emergency programme to deal with COVID-19 emergency

19 March 2020

SIPTU General Secretary, Joe Cunningham, has called on the Government to introduce an extensive wage subsidy scheme to keep employees in work during the COVID-19 emergency. In a letter to An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, today, Joe Cunningham also called for an immediate increase in Jobseekers’ Benefit and other payments such as the COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment, to €305 per week.
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SIPTU members in DFB to ensure Emergency Medical Service operates during crisis

17 March 2020

SIPTU members in the Dublin Fire Brigade (DFB) have reassured the public that they are actively working with management to ensure the Emergency Medical Service they operate is maintained throughout the unfolding Covid-19 crisis.
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Daa Unions call for suspension of State dividend to allow supports for airport workers

16 March 2020

The daa ICTU Unions, SIPTU, Mandate, Forsa, Connect and Unite have today called for the daa to suspend the planned dividend to allow for the funds to be used to support airport workers over the coming period.
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SIPTU and BATU sign historic affiliation agreement

13 March 2020

Following detailed discussions over several months, an affiliation agreement between SIPTU and BATU (Building and Allied Trade Union), was signed in Liberty Hall on Thursday, 12th March.
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TUF Unions welcome Dublin City Council agreement on monitoring SEO compliance

11 March 2020

The Trade Union Federation (TUF), which includes SIPTU, BATU and Connect, has welcomed the agreement by Dublin City Council to introduce a monitoring body which will ensure that contractors comply with the Sectoral Employment Order (SEO) for the construction industry on council sites.
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SIPTU welcomes lifting of HSE recruitment embargo for all health workers

09 March 2020

SIPTU Health representatives have today (Sunday, 8th March) welcomed written confirmation from the Health Service Executive (HSE) that all barriers to the recruitment of health staff has now been fully lifted in an effort to support critical clinical services in dealing with COVID-19.
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ICTU women’s conference supports Stop67 campaign to halt pension age increase

05 March 2020

Delegates attending the ICTU Women’s Conference in White’s Hotel, Wexford, have today (Thursday, 5th March) unanimously passed a motion supporting the Stop67 campaign to halt the proposed increase in the state pension age and establish a stakeholders’ forum to discuss issues concerning retirement.
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SIPTU supports students rally to stop rent increases in UCD accommodation today

04 March 2020

SIPTU members have been encouraged to support a protest rally by students seeking to stop rent increases in student accommodation at University College Dublin, which is taking place at 12.00 noon today (Wednesday, 4th March) on the campus.
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SIPTU commends work of members during Storm Jorge

02 March 2020

SIPTU has today (Monday, 2nd March) commended its public service members working in local authorities, fire, health, ambulance and emergency services and the Office of Public Works (OPW) for protecting families and communities and for keeping public services going throughout storm Jorge over the weekend.
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SIPTU says survey shows childcare crisis is damaging the economy and women’s careers

02 March 2020

SIPTU representatives have called for urgent action to end the crisis in the Early Years sector. The impact of the crisis is made clear in a survey by Network Ireland, released today (Monday, 2nd March), which reveals that nearly half of working mothers have considered giving up work due to childcare costs.
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SIPTU secures pay restoration agreement for hundreds of home care workers in Dublin

20 February 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Thursday, 20th February) confirmed that up to 500 home helps working in community and disability services across Dublin city and county have reached an agreement to have their pay restored and have deferred strike action planned for tomorrow (Friday, 21st February).
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SIPTU Mayo District Council to host ‘Stop67’ seminar in Castlebar on 26th February

19 February 2020

SIPTU Mayo District Council will host a seminar on the Stop67 Campaign to prevent the increase of the state pension age, at 7.00 p.m. in Breaffy House Hotel, Castlebar on Wednesday, 26th February.
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Hundreds of SIPTU members working in Section 39 organisations set to strike on Friday

19 February 2020

SIPTU Public Sector representatives have today (Wednesday, 19th February) confirmed that members in selected Section 39 organisations across the country will take strike action on Friday (21st, February) in an effort to resolve a dispute over pay restoration.
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SIPTU members in Sue Ryder Foundation in Carlow to conduct work stoppage

14 February 2020

SIPTU members providing elderly care services at the Sue Ryder Foundation residential complex in Carlow, county Carlow, will conduct a one-day work stoppage on Tuesday (18th February), from 7.00 a.m. to 11.00 p.m., in a dispute concerning union recognition and several other workplace issues.
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SIPTU members in St Patrick’s Mental Health Services to strike on 14th February

07 February 2020

SIPTU members in the catering and household departments of St Patrick’s Mental Health Services on James Street, Dublin 8, will commence an strike, in a dispute concerning the outsourcing of services, at 7.00 a.m. on Friday, 14th February.
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SIPTU members in St Patrick’s Mental Health Services to hold public protest tomorrow

06 February 2020

SIPTU members in catering and household departments of St Patrick’s Mental Health Services on James Street, Dublin 8, will hold a public protest tomorrow (Friday, 7thFebruary) to highlight their vote for industrial action in a dispute concerning the outsourcing of services.
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‘Together for Early Years’ Protest march

04 February 2020

Wednesday, 5th February Assemble at 11.30 a.m. Parnell Square, Dublin 1
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Tens of thousands march in Dublin demanding a ‘new deal’ for childcare

05 February 2020

More than 30,000 Early Years educators, providers and parents from across the country marched to demand a ‘new deal’ for the childcare sector at a colourful and vibrant protest march in Dublin, today (Wednesday, 5th February), which was led by mothers pushing their children in buggies.
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Thousands to march in Dublin demanding a ‘new deal’ for childcare

05 February 2020

Thousands of Early Years educators, providers and parents will call for a ‘new deal’ for childcare at a protest march in Dublin, today (Wednesday, 5th February). The march will assemble at 11.30 a.m. in Parnell Square, Dublin 1. Dublin 1
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Larkin commemoration told new Government must tackle crises faced by ordinary people

31 January 2020

SIPTU Deputy General Secretary, John King, told the annual Jim Larkin commemoration in Glasnevin cemetery, Dublin, today (Friday, 31st January) that “the ignorance and indifference” the current Government has shown to the concerns of ordinary people “is breath taking, even given the privileged cocoons within which several of its leading figures appear to have spent their lives.”
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SIPTU members in FAI welcome the success of their campaign to secure extra funding

30 January 2020

SIPTU members employed by the FAI have welcomed the announcement today (Thursday, 30th January) of an agreement by stakeholders in the organisation to increase funding to a degree which safeguards jobs and the development of community level football. Sport Ireland announced earlier today that it will reinstate its funding, which will double from €2.9 million to €5.8 million a year until 2023. The Government also said it will provide an annual €2.5 million interest free loan.
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Bord na Móna workers to hold protest march in Shannonbridge on 1st February

30 January 2020

Bord na Móna (BNM) workers will take part in a protest march to highlight their demands for a ‘Just Transition’ for midlands communities and workers and to highlight their concerns over the pensions’ policy at the company, in Shannonbridge, County Offaly, at 2.00 p.m. on Saturday, 1st February.
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SIPTU enters consultation period with Standex Ireland Ltd concerning redundancies

29 January 2020

SIPTU representatives are to begin a consultation with union members and management following the announcement of planned redundancies at the Standex Ireland Ltd production plant in Mountmellick, Co. Laois.
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SIPTU members in St. Patrick’s Mental Health Services ballot for strike action

28 January 2020

SIPTU members working in St. Patrick's Mental Health Services, James’s Street, Dublin 8, will tomorrow (Wednesday, 29th January) begin the process of balloting for strike action in a dispute resulting from a management decision to outsource household and catering services to third party providers without agreement.
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Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil manifesto promises will not mend our broken childcare system

24 January 2020

SIPTU representatives have said that the promises on childcare contained in the Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil election manifestos published today (Friday, 24th January) are not adequate to deal with the worsening crisis in the childcare sector.
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CE Supervisors vote for industrial action in dispute over pension rights

24 January 2020

Community Employment (CE) Supervisors have overwhelmingly voted to take industrial action, up to and including strike action, in a dispute concerning the failure of the Government to implement a Labour Court recommendation regarding their right to a pension.
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Launch of STOP67 Coalition to fight increase in the pension age for workers

23 January 2020

SIPTU was joined by leading non-governmental organisations for the launch of the Stop67 campaign in Dublin today (Thursday, 23rd January) which aims to halt the increase of the state pension age for workers to 67 from next year.
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SIPTU to outline STOP67 campaign against pension age increases tomorrow in Dublin

22 January 2020

SIPTU General Secretary, Joe Cunningham, will outline the union’s STOP67 campaign to reverse the pension age increase to age 67 in 2021 and 68 in 2028, in Dublin on Thursday 23rd January.
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SIPTU rejects Fine Gael claim on cost of demand to stop the increase in pension age

17 January 2020

SIPTU representatives have rejected a claim by finance minister, Paschal Donohoe, that the State cannot afford to stop the increase in the pension age to 67 years in 2021. Responding to finance minister, Paschal Donohoe, who questioned how the €200 million cost of such a policy could be funded, SIPTU Researcher, Michael Taft, said that it could be financed from the existing Social Insurance Fund.
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SIPTU members demanding real action on pension age increases from North West election candidates

16 January 2020

Up to 150 SIPTU members and activists, working in the health service across the North West of Ireland, will gather for a special “Stop67” campaign event tonight in the Glasshouse Hotel, Sligo (Thursday, 16th January) at 7.00 p.m.
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SIPTU hopeful after meeting with Minister for Sport to discuss future of FAI

15 January 2020

A SIPTU delegation met the Minister for Sport, Shane Ross, today (Wednesday, 15th January) in Government Buildings in Dublin, to discuss the future of the FAI and the protection of the livelihoods of union members employed by the Association.
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CE Supervisors balloting for industrial action in dispute over pension rights

15 January 2020

Community Employment (CE) Supervisors are voting in a ballot for industrial action, up to and including strike action, in a dispute concerning the failure of the Government to implement a Labour Court recommendation regarding their right to a pension.
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SIPTU demands access to building sites following sharp rise in construction worker deaths

14 January 2020

SIPTU has called for its organisers to be granted access to building sites across the country following a doubling in the number of construction workers who died in workplace incidents during 2019.
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National protest to highlight childcare crisis to be held on 5th February

10 January 2020

The Early Years Alliance has today (Friday, 10th January) announced that it will be holding a national protest march involving thousands of educators, providers and parents to demand a sustainable solution to the worsening childcare crisis in Dublin on Wednesday, 5th February.
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SIPTU encourages members to support #SupportOurSecretaries rallies tomorrow

09 January 2020

SIPTU representatives have called on members to support for the #SupportOurSecretaries rallies taking place tomorrow (Friday 10th January) to highlight the campaign by school secretaries for respect and fair conditions at work.
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SIPTU says overcrowding crisis is leading to ambulance service chaos

06 January 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Sunday, 5th January) said that the overcrowding crisis in emergency departments is causing chaos for ambulance professionals across the country.
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SIPTU remembers contribution of Marian Finucane to broadcasting and women’s rights

03 January 2020

SIPTU Services Division Organiser, Teresa Hannick, has expressed her deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Marian Finucane, following the death of the broadcaster who made an immense contribution to journalism and women’s rights in Ireland.
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SIPTU preparing to mobilise to win respect for ambulance professionals

01 January 2020

SIPTU representatives have today (Wednesday, 1st January) said that members working in the National Ambulance Service (NAS) are planning a national mobilising campaign to win respect and recognition for all ambulance professionals in 2020.
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SIPTU calls for extension of the Wage Subsidy Scheme for Childcare Sector

23 June 2020

SIPTU representatives have called for the extension of the Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme for the childcare sector before the full reopening of services in September.
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SIPTU members working in Section 39 organisations to ballot for strike action

31 December 2019

SIPTU representatives have today (Tuesday, 31st December) confirmed that up to 500 home helps working in community and disability services across Dublin city and county will be balloted for strike action early in the new year.
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SIPTU representatives to seek assurances for staff at FAI from sports minister, Shane Ross

17 December 2019

SIPTU representatives are to meet with the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Shane Ross, tomorrow (Wednesday, 18th December) to seek assurances for the future of workers employed at the Football Association of Ireland (FAI).
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SIPTU members in the Public Service to receive pay increase from 1st January

20 December 2019

SIPTU members in the Public Service will receive a pay increase from 1st January, 2020, as part of the Public Service Agreement 2018-2020 which places a particular emphasis on raising the wages of lower paid workers.
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SIPTU general secretary expresses condolences at death of Cormac Ó Braonáin

17 December 2019

The General Secretary of SIPTU, Joe O’Flynn, has expressed his deep condolences to the family and friends of Cormac Ó Braonáin following his tragic death.
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SIPTU members in Dublin Fire Brigade warn of ambulance delays at Christmas

02 January 2020

SIPTU members in the Dublin Fire Brigade (DFB) have warned that lives could be put at risk over the festive period due to ambulance delays resulting from the underfunding of the service and have called for extra resources to be made available.
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SIPTU Dublin District Council condemns move to grant work permits for non-EU chefs

19 December 2019

The SIPTU Dublin District Council has condemned a government decision to increase the number of work permits issued for chefs from non-EU countries as a move that will further undermine pay and working conditions in the industry.
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SIPTU urges National Pen to recognise SIPTU as workers’ representative

13 May 2020

Workers at National Pen in Dundalk, county Louth have insisted that they wish to be represented by SIPTU during discussions on redundancy terms following the decision by the company to remove 176 employees from its workforce.
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