Workers maintaining one of the country’s most breathtaking tourist attractions, the island of Skellig Michael off the County Kerry coast, have successfully fought to have their earnings protected after a SIPTU campaign led to the creation of a new OPW allowance.
SIPTU Organiser, Jay Power, said: “In late 2023, SIPTU members employed on Skellig Michael were informed by OPW management that the Revenue Commissioners believed their ‘country allowance’ of €181.69 a week did not comply with tax rules. We contested this position and made it clear that SIPTU members would not accept any reductions in their earnings.
“The dispute was resolved following extensive negotiations at the Workplace Relations Commission where an agreement was reached to the benefit of the SIPTU members. The ‘country allowance’ was not restored but a new ‘bespoke’ arrangement was concluded.
This addresses loss of earnings and meets Revenue Commissioners’ compliance requirements.”
SIPTU Shop Steward and OPW National Monuments General Operative, Tom Kerrisk, said: “The new agreement gives certainty to members’ earnings and ensures that the excellent service that we provide on Skellig Michael in very trying conditions can continue unhindered.”
Skellig Michael Guides and Maintenance staff will also be reimbursed for money lost from the time the previous allowance was withdrawn for the 2024 season.