In response to media queries this afternoon (Tuesday), the officers of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions’ Public Services Committee (PSC) have confirmed that the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) has invited unions and senior Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) officials to resume talks on public service pay next Monday afternoon (29th August).
Fórsa general secretary Kevin Callinan, who leads the union side in the talks, said unions would engage positively in the process and were prepared to be flexible. But he restated his position that a significantly improved pay offer from the Government side was needed.
Fórsa and other unions representing over 90% of Ireland’s civil and public servants are currently preparing industrial action ballots in a coordinated campaign for improved pay terms.
Fórsa and other unions representing over 90% of Ireland’s civil and public servants are currently preparing industrial action ballots in a coordinated campaign for improved pay terms in light of the cost-of-living crisis. Voting by Fórsa members is expected to commence on 1st September.
Kevin said he would prefer a negotiated outcome that could credibly be put to ballots of public servants, but added that this would not be feasible in the absence of a significantly improved Government position.
“Public service unions are united in their resolution to achieve a credible public service pay offer for 2021-2022,” he said.
Read our FAQ on Fórsa’s industrial action ballot HERE.