Staff at the National Advocacy Service for People with Disabilities (NAS) are to ballot on proposals that emerged following talks between their SIPTU representatives and management.
The protracted negotiations concluded in late July, following weeks of strike action by the workers in pursuit of the implementation of a Labour Court Recommendation on pay and conditions of employment. The proposals encompass several issues including pay, new grade structures and recognition of the Union.
Commending these brave and determined workers for standing up to ensure their demands were vindicated, SIPTU Deputy General Secretary, John King, said: “These workers carry out vital and confidential work with some of those most at risk, providing in-person advocacy interventions in areas including housing, access to justice, health care, safeguarding and decision-making support.”
He added: “Taking strike action for these workers was very difficult because the support they provide is vital for those they assist. However, it was only after a two-week strike action by our members that we could secure the proposals that will now be put to a ballot of our members.”
He added: “Workers across the Community Sector are becoming more determined to secure a fair and just outcome to their demands concerning pay and conditions They will be encouraged by this outcome and SIPTU representatives will continue to support members, including in the taking of strike action, as part of their campaigns for fairness in the workplace.”
The proposals honour a Labour Court Recommendation secured by the workers earlier this year. Approximately 50 people are employed by the National Advocacy Service in offices across the country. The ballot is expected to be concluded by the end of August.