News Archive
SIPTU member’s encounter with Taoiseach brings the spotlight on carers’ pay
The long-running dispute concerning pay for Section 39 and other voluntary sector workers came under the spotlight in the last days of the election after an encounter between a SIPTU member and Taoiseach Simon Harris in Kanturk, County Cork on 22nd November. The...
SIPTU Health members update: Section 39 pay proposals
Following intensive negotiations we advise that SIPTU has secured a set of Section 39 pay proposals which will now be put to a vote of eligible members. Contact your local official for more details on how and when you can cast your vote.
Bord na Móna Recycling workers vote for strike action
SIPTU members employed by Bord na Móna Recycling have voted overwhelmingly for strike action in a dispute over the protection of workers’ terms and conditions of employment.
Celebrating the Fighting Spirit of Sheila Conroy
In our Sunday Read, Deputy General Secretary Ethel Buckley pays tribute to Sheila Conroy, a pioneering trade unionist and feminist whose extraordinary life and legacy have too often been overlooked.
SIPTU calls for funding for specialist HSE ambulance infectious disease unit
SIPTU representatives have called on the Minister for Health to fund the continuation of Ambulance Emergency Threat Teams which deal with outbreaks of infectious diseases across the State.
Government commitment on transport police service must be made reality
SIPTU’s transport police proposal was included in the Programme for Government published in January, with seeking a swift delivery on this undertaking now the main focus of the Respect Transport Workers campaign.
New permanent toilet facilities for Dublin Bus drivers at route termini
Several bus route termini will have dedicated permanent toilet facilities for Dublin Bus workers in operation later this year.
Port of Cork’s key role in development of South-West region
The Port of Cork is set to play a key role in Cork City becoming the fastest-growing urban area in Ireland over the next 20 years.
Statement on behalf of ICTU Group of Unions – WRC talks adjourn
Talks aimed at resolving the long running pay dispute in the community and voluntary sector have been adjourned tonight, at the request of the WRC, until Friday morning (7th March) at 10.00am.
New TEAC Divisional Organiser Willie Noone
Veteran SIPTU Organiser and activist, Willie Noone, was appointed as the new Transport, Energy, Aviation and Construction (TEAC) Divisional Organiser earlier this month, taking over from Adrian Kane, who has moved onto the Services Division. Willie has a long history...
Clean Air Site Campaign
The Irish Congress of Trade Unions and the Construction Industry Federation have teamed up with the Construction Workers Health Trust (CWHT) to promote clean air practices that reduce dust and contaminated air on all construction sites. Silica dust, in particular,...
New Construction SEO rates come into force in August
The terms of a new Construction Sectoral Employment Order (SEO) will come into force on 1st August 2025 and result in pay rises of approximately 6.6% over the term of its implementation. The new SEO, which supersedes the previous SEO of 2023, sets updated minimum pay...
Tara Mines campaign wins pay-related welfare for all laid-off workers
A campaign by members of the SIPTU Construction Sector employed in Tara Mines in Navan, County Meath, was crucial in securing reform of the social welfare system, which since October 2024 has resulted in laid-off workers receiving 60% of their previous gross weekly...
Unions seek urgent meeting with Minister on water referendum commitment
The Water Services Group of Unions has written to the Minister James Browne, requesting an urgent meeting in relation to the long-standing Government commitment to hold a water referendum.
Musicians Union of Ireland calls for protection for funding
Funding for arts sector projects must be protected during the review of the operation of the Arts Council following the revelations concerning spending on an unsuccessful IT transformation scheme.
BNM Recycling workers commence strike ballot
SIPTU members employed in Bord na Móna Recycling will commence a ballot for strike action in response to the threat to their terms and conditions.
Supporting Quality discount for members travelling on Aircoach
Aircoach, a member of the Supporting Quality campaign, is offering all SIPTU members a 15% discount
Section 39 workers ballot for strike over inaction on pay
The Government has announced that it intends to meet with Unions representing staff in Section 39 community and voluntary organisations in the face of an ongoing SIPTU Health Division ballot.
HSE HR Circulars Recently Released
HR Circular 025 2024 - 2006 Annual Radiographer - Radiation Therapist Allowance HR Circular 026 2024 Job Evaluation Scheme for Support Staff Phase IV 6083 General Assistant - Addiction Services HR Circular 027 2024 International Returning Emigrants Recruitment...
Building union strength at Stewarts Care: A Shop Steward’s Perspective
At Stewarts Care, a voluntary organisation providing community-based support for individuals with intellectual disabilities, SIPTU’s presence is flourishing thanks to dedicated Shop Stewards like Bernard Kessie. Bernard, a Day Services Support Worker, has been with...
Report shows major pay gap between Health Care Assistants in public and private employment
A new report from the European Federation of Public Service Unions (EPSU) has revealed a significant pay gap between the earnings of Health Care Assistants (HCAs) in the public and private sectors in some European countries, including Ireland. The report, Wage Watch:...
Progress on local bargaining with allocation of grades
Following weeks of negotiations at the national level, agreement has been reached between SIPTU, HSE and Department of Health representatives on the allocation of grades to create Local Bargaining Units
Disability care workers’ pay left short as providers fail to increase sleepover rates
SIPTU has condemned the failure of publicly funded disability providers to increase pay, in line with National Minimum Wage (NMW) increases.
SIPTU welcomes united political opposition to the sale of Bord na Mona Recycling
SIPTU representatives have welcomed the public and political support for the campaign to prevent the privatisation of Bord na Móna Recycling. #StopTheSale
Shop Stewards needed to organise growing membership in Uisce Éireann
As staff numbers continue to grow in Uisce Éireann so does its SIPTU membership necessitating the need for people to step forward and become Shop Stewards.
More than 7% pay increase over two years secured at Westland Horticulture
A two-year pay agreement has been accepted in a ballot by members employed Westland Horticulture, based in Offaly, and previously traded as Erin Peats.
Coillte pay increases secured in three-year agreement
A comprehensive three-year agreement that affords considerable pay and allowances increases has been secured by SIPTU members at Coillte, Ireland’s semi-state forestry company. The agreement, which covers the period 1st January 2025 until 31st December 2027 provides...
BNM Recycling sale an act of economic vandalism that will be opposed
SIPTU has demanded a halt to the sale of Bord na Móna (BNM) Recycling and an investigation into the attempt to privatise part of a profitable public company in a manner which runs counter to economic and environmental best practice. SIPTU Divisional Organiser, Adrian...
BNM Recycling sale is an act of economic vandalism says SIPTU
SIPTU has demanded a halt to the sale of Bord na Móna Recycling and an investigation into the attempt to privatise part of a profitable public company.
Disability care workers’ pay left short
SIPTU has condemned the failure of publicly funded disability providers to increase pay, in line with National Minimum Wage (NMW) increases, for workers in disability services who carry out sleepover shifts.
SIPTU conference told we need an economy for workers not billionaires
An economy which works for workers rather than billionaires must be built in Ireland, SIPTU Deputy General Secretary, Greg Ennis, told delegates attending the Union’s Services Division Conference
SIPTU will demand TDs honour their pledge to improve workers’ rights
The 89 TDs, a majority of TDs in Dáil Eireann, who signed the ‘Respect at Work’ pledge will be held to account by trade unions to ensure they keep their commitment to improve workers’ rights, SIPTU Deputy General Secretary, Ethel Buckley, told the Union’s Services...
SIPTU conference told unions must help build left alternative to the Government
Trade unions must work with left-wing parties to ensure that the electorate has a credible alternative to the ‘most conservative Government in living memory’
Building a better world as one big union
Sunday Read: SIPTU Deputy General Secretary keynote address at the annual Jim Larkin Commemoration in Glasnevin. #LarkinLives
SIPTU calls on Kent Playgroup Ltd to rethink closure of vital childcare service
SIPTU – The Early Years Union has called on the management of Kent Playgroup Ltd to rethink a decision to end an Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Programme at its facility in Stoneybatter.
Support Quality Jobs by buying Union-made
SIPTU wishes to remind members to always consider purchasing goods from companies which are part of the Union-backed Supporting Quality campaign.
Skellig Michael workers win earnings battle
Workers maintaining one of the country’s most breathtaking tourist attractions, the island of Skellig Michael have successfully fought to have their earnings protected.
Local bargaining claims served on all employers in State Related Sector
Securing further pay rises for members through the new Local Bargaining Fund is a key priority for the State Related Sector which has lodged claims with each of the agencies and bodies where SIPTU members are organised.
SIPTU members win union recognition in Research Ireland
SIPTU has secured sole collective bargaining rights in Research Ireland following an organising campaign by Union activists in the new agency which funds research and innovation.
Progress towards resolution of Castletown House dispute
SIPTU members employed as Groundskeepers and Tour Guides in Castletown House in County Kildare are considering proposals to end a long-running dispute.
Major staffing increase in National Parks and Wildlife Service
Engagement between SIPTU and the National Parks and Wildlife Service has resulted in agreements which have seen nearly a 40% increase in the number of staff.
Major new countrywide OPW apprenticeship programme rolled out
A new apprenticeship recruitment campaign has commenced in the Office of Public Works (OPW) following an agreement between SIPTU representatives and management.
Dublin Firefighters call out Government pensions betrayal
Younger members of Dublin Fire Brigade, who feel betrayed by the new Government due to its failure to honour commitments on pension reform.
SIPTU has commended Local Authority workers for their work during Storm Éowyn
SIPTU has commended members in Local Authorities for their tireless efforts in delivering essential frontline services during and after Storm Éowyn, despite working with severely limited resources.
Storm Éowyn Weather Warning Update
This is an update from the Early Years Division at the Department of Children. Following yesterday’s communication on Storm Éowyn, please be advised that a Red warning is now in place for every county tomorrow Friday, 24 January. As advised, the National Directorate...
Legacy of the Lockout
The Great Dublin Lockout remains the seminal event in the history of the Irish working class. That epic struggle also ranks as one of the great battles in the history of the workers’ movement.
SIPTU Section 39 workers to ballot for strike over Government inaction on pay
SIPTU’s Health Division is to begin a ballot of up to 5,000 members working in Section 39 Organisations for strike action due to the failure of the Government to honour a pay agreement
SIPTU The Early Years Union welcomes public childcare provision commitment
SIPTU The Early Years Union has welcomed a commitment in the Programme for Government, published today (Wednesday, 15th January), for the rollout of public childcare provision.
SIPTU seeks meeting with new Transport Minister on transport police commitment
SIPTU representatives have welcomed the inclusion in the Programme for Government of a commitment to establish a new transport police service with powers of arrest and under the control of the NTA.
Action on care workers’ pay needed due to recruitment crisis
SIPTU calls on the Irish Government to increase the Minimum Annual Remuneration for Health Care Assistants & Home Support Workers to €30,000.
Concerns over increased assaults on Dublin City Council workers
SIPTU representatives are calling for action to safeguard Dublin City Council workers from physical assaults while they are carrying out their duties assisting communities throughout the city
Strike action to save bin collection service
SIPTU members working in Bord na Móna Recycling will consider industrial action, up to and including a strike, to safeguard the future of Ireland’s last publicly-owned domestic waste collection service.
Incoming Government must not renege on water referendum commitment
SIPTU has called on the incoming Government to hold a referendum to provide constitutional protection against the future privatisation of public water services.
The Red Hand of union solidarity
Trade union badges first became commonplace with the rise of the ‘New Unionism’ of the 1890s among the previously unorganised dockers, carters and general workers in Britain and Ireland.
The Union makes us strong
SIPTU was established in 1990 – with the merger of the country’s two largest unions, the Irish Transport and General Workers’ Union and the Federated Workers’ Union of Ireland.
Supporting quality union jobs at Christmas
The aim of Supporting Quality is to protect quality jobs by promoting the goods and services produced in unionised workplaces in Ireland.
Retained Fire Service members awarded €30,000 in age discrimination cases
Two SIPTU members employed in the Retained Fire Service were awarded €15,000 each due to being forced to retire at age 60 when both wished to continue in their jobs.
Incoming Government must expand public nursing home and home care provision
SIPTU, the Union of Health Care Assistants (HCA), has called on the incoming Government to expand and improve the public provision of nursing home and home care, following its release of the initial results of a survey of HCAs which highlights their concerns about low...
Christmas Message from the Aviation Sector Staff
As 2024 comes to a close, the SIPTU Aviation Sector would like to extend its warmest wishes to all our members and your loved ones for a happy Christmas and a peaceful and a prosperous New Year on behalf of our Union. We would like to thank all of our Shop Stewards...
Retirement of long serving Union activist Barry Nevin
The SIPTU Aviation Sector Committee extended its best wishes and gratitude to Barry Nevin who recently retired from daa Dublin Airport after more than 30 years working in the Airport Police and Fire Service. Barry was a long-time Union activist and Shop Steward in the...
Transport Energy Aviation and Construction (TEAC) Divisional Conference
The Aviation Sector Committee moved two motions at the TEAC Divisional Conference which was held in the Tower Hotel, Waterford on the 21st-22nd November, 2024. Our first motion on the General Officer Structure of the Union was first raised at the SIPTU Biennial...
SIPTU College training courses
Throughout 2024 many Aviation Sector Shop Stewards and Health & Safety Representatives have availed of training through SIPTU College. Four of our daa Dublin Shop Stewards took part in training in Tullamore during the summer, more recently nine Shop Stewards from...
Closure of IAG Cargo Shannon
Aer Lingus announced the closure of its IAG cargo operation at Shannon Airport in August. This followed a review by the parent company International Airlines Group (IAG) which recommended the operation’s closure due to the need for significant capital investment in...
Sky Handling Partner and SIPTU agree union recognition deal
A collective bargaining agreement has been reached between Sky Handling Partner, which was previously a non-union employer, and SIPTU, after several months of negotiations with the assistance of the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). The deal provides for trade...
SIPTU says EPA report findings make sale of Bord na Mona Recycling untenable
SIPTU has stated that the proposed sale by the State of Bord Na Mona Recycling is untenable in light of a new EPA report which says Ireland will miss its mandatory EU recycling targets applying from 2025.
Electric Ireland Lights Up the Festive Season
Every Christmas, Dylan Walsh, a beloved community figure in Finglas, Dublin, transforms his home into a spectacular festive light display. His dazzling decorations not only light up the neighbourhood but also raise vital funds for local charities. This year marks the...
See the full list of Supporting Quality Brands and Services
Our campaign is to protect quality jobs in Ireland by promoting quality brands manufactured in Ireland and quality services provided in Ireland. To see all the brands and services which are part of the Supporting Quality campaign visit: https://supportingquality.ie
Irish Distillers and Maynooth University partner on a robotics project
Supporting Quality brand Irish Distillers and Maynooth University re partnering on a pilot research project to develop an autonomous regenerative agriculture platform through robotics and sensing solutions, to improve the sustainability of cereal crop production....
O’Donnells Crisps build on a tradition of quality
Since the 1700s over seven generations of the O’Donnell family have lived on Seskin Farm, County Tipperary and have mastered the art of cultivating the perfect potato.
Irish Distillers Jameson Black Barrel – Apple Cider Punch Recipe
The Jameson Black Barrel Apple Cider Punch is a zero-stress staple, that packs a whole load of punch. This recipe serves 6 can be served hot or cold and is perfect for mingling with friends this Christmas, rather than being stuck at the cocktail counter. Ingredients:...
Odlums Christmas Chocolate Yule Log Recipe
Christmas Chocolate Yule Log What you need: 125g/4oz Odlums Cream Plain Flour (less 2 tablespoons) 4 Eggs separated Pinch of Salt 125g/4oz Shamrock Golden Caster Sugar 2 tbsp Cocoa Powder 1 level tsp Baking Powder Icing 125g/4oz Butter (Room temperature) 200g/7oz...
Win a €100 Me2You Gift Card!
To celebrate its long relationship with Supporting Quality and SIPTU, Me2You is offering you the opportunity to win a €100 Gift Card!
ZIP Products Christmas Giveaway
It's giveaway time and we've put together the ultimate fireside bundle. Enter for a chance to win and make your home warm and cosy this Christmas. Head over to our Christmas Giveaway post on Instagram to enter - all you have to do is like, share and tag a friend in...
Iarnród Éireann journey to a green future
Iarnród Éireann is on a journey to a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable future, working responsibly to place sustainability at the heart of the service and infrastructure. Iarnród Éireann targets 80 million journeys by 2030, and continues to deliver major projects...
HSE HR Circulars Recently Released
HR Circular 025 2024 - 2006 Annual Radiographer - Radiation Therapist Allowance HSE NER Memo 15/2024 Overtime following annual leave HR Memo 056-2024 -Updated HR Memo on Management of the Probationary Process
Uptake of Winter vaccines amongst health and care workers
SIPTU has been contacted by Mr David Walsh, the HSE’s Director of Access and Integration, to advise of a growing concern about the rate of uptake among health care workers taking up vaccines for influenza and Covid-19 this winter. A letter from Mr Walsh and Dr Colm...
Wage report demonstrates disparity in pay between HCAs in public and private healthcare settings
A new report from the European Federation of Public Service Unions (EPSU) has revealed a significant pay gap between the earnings of Health Care Assistants (HCAs) in the public and private sectors in some European countries, including Ireland. The study drew from the...
Staff our Services – campaign update
SIPTU members have continued the campaigning in opposition to the HSE’s Pay and Numbers Strategy throughout the month of November. Most recently, protests took place at Midlands Regional Hospital Portlaoise on November 27th and St. Vincent’s University Hospital in...
SIPTU consults Section 39 Organisation members on industrial action on pay claim
SIPTU has commenced a process of consultation with members in Section 39 Organisations concerning industrial action over the issue of Government inaction in relation to a longstanding pay claim in the sector. SIPTU Sector Organiser, Damian Ginley, said: “Despite...
Register with the NMBI
SIPTU members in the Nursing and Midwifery Sector are reminded that all nurses and midwives who practice in Ireland must be registered on the Register of Nurses and Midwives which is maintained by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI). The current annual...
Christmas message from Kevin Figgis
Dear Members, As 2024 comes to a close, I want to extend my warmest wishes to you and your loved ones for a happy Christmas and a peaceful, prosperous New Year on behalf of our Union. This year has been marked by significant challenges across the Irish health service....
Report shows major pay gap between Health Care Assistants in public and private employment
A new report from EPSU has revealed a significant pay gap between the earnings of Health Care Assistants in the public and private sectors in some European countries, including Ireland.
SIPTU DGS calls on left parties to build a real alternative government while in opposition
SIPTU Deputy General Secretary, Greg Ennis, has called on Sinn Féin, Labour and the Social Democrats to work together to build a real alternative government to present to voters in time for the next General Election
Passing of union stalwart and long-serving education sector activist Jack McGinley
The SIPTU Education Sector lost one of its leading activists and former Sector Presidents with the unexpected death of Kieran ‘Jack’ McGinley on 25th November.
Update from campuses around the country
South-East Technological University (SETU): Waterford and Carlow Campuses SIPTU representatives are engaging at the WRC conciliation service with officials from the Carlow Campus concerning the insourcing of work that has been previously outsourced. The Union is...
Education Sector motions passed at PAC Division Biennial Conference in Galway
The SIPTU Public Administration and Community (PAC) Division Biennial Delegate Conference was held in Salthill, Galway during October. Both motions proposed by the Education Sector were passed unanimously. Keith Flynn (Ollscoil na Gailimhe) and Willie Bissett...
Rehab/National Learning Network vote for industrial action
Earlier this year, members of the Rehab/National Learning Network, a Section 39 Organisation, voted for industrial action in the long-running dispute related to a claim for parity of pay with workers fulfilling similar roles directly employed by the State. SIPTU...
Webinar on Code of Practice for Flexible Working Remote Working
A Webinar was held by the Education Sector Committee earlier this year on the release of the Code of Practice on the Right to Request Flexible Working and the Right to Request Remote Working. The discussion of the Code of Practice was conducted by the ICTU Head of...
Pay deals in Kilkenny College and the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland
SIPTU members in Kilkenny College and the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland have recently voted to accept pay deals which will see significant rises in their earnings.
SIPTU Education Sector demands of the next Government
The SIPTU Education Sector has a number of priorities it will be pursuing with the next Government, whatever its make-up.
SIPTU to consult Section 39 Organisation members on industrial action on pay claim
SIPTU is to begin a process of consultation with members in Section 39 Organisations concerning industrial action over the issue of Government inaction in relation to a longstanding pay claim in the sector. SIPTU Sector Organiser, Damian Ginley, said: “Despite several...
Respect at Work campaign hails ‘new political consensus’ on workers’ rights
The Respect at Work campaign has today hailed a “new political consensus on workers’ rights” after its General Election pledge received support from across the spectrum.
Election priorities for Private Sector
The SIPTU Private Sector made five specific policy demands of political candidates in the run up the General Election, dealing with areas including the need for a transport police service, redundancy improvements, re-municipalisation of domestic waste services and...
Rally for Unity and Hope! calls for a stand against racism
The SIPTU-backed ICTU-organised Rally for Unity and Hope! brought together hundreds of trade union and anti-racism activists in a call for solidarity among workers in the face of activity by racists and far-right politicians at the Larkin Statue on O’Connell Street in...
New Construction SEO signed into law
The terms of a new Construction Sectoral Employment Order (SEO) were signed into law by the Minister of State for Business, Employment, and Retail on 7th November and will come into force on 1st August 2025. The new SEO, which supersedes the previous SEO of 2023, sets...
SIPTU calls for members to ‘Vote Workers’ Rights’
SIPTU is calling for members to cast their vote for stronger workers' rights after almost two-hundred-and-fifty General Election candidates across Ireland signed a pledge committing to legislative change. The pledge, organised by the cross-union Respect at Work...
Welcome for election candidates’ commitments on public childcare introduction
The Early Years Union, SIPTU, has welcomed commitments to introduce public childcare provision from representatives of the various political parties who attended an online hustings debate on the ‘hot button’ topic for voters, on 26th November. Early Years Manager and...
SIPTU pays respect to three Union stalwarts; Jack McGinley, Denis Carr and Seamus Rodgers
SIPTU General Secretary, Joe Cunningham, has led his Union in paying respects to three veteran activists and organisers, Jack McGinley, Denis Carr and Seamus Rodgers whose recent passing has left the movement in a state of deep sadness. “Jack McGinley, Denis Carr and...
LAPO input key to structuring a Workforce Plan
The Workforce Plan is a Local Authority’s strategy for ensuring it has adequate workers and structures to meet the varied demands and supply all the relevant services. These plans must look towards the future to encompass growing populations and requirements placed...
Process for transfer of water services to Uisce Éireann
Uisce Éireann has conducted a number of meetings across all 31 local authority areas over the last 24 months to outline the process for water services staff to transfer to the new national utility. The Framework for Future Delivery of Water Services was published in...