Siptu to ballot thousands of public service workers on strike action

Union blames Government action on new pay deal

Siptu general secretary John King said the union will ballot public service members on strike action. Picture: Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland

Siptu says it will ballot tens of thousands of public service members on strike action, blaming Government inaction on pay talks.

The union has launched nationwide workplace consultations in preparation for strike ballots across the public service over the coming weeks. The previous agreement expired on June 30 and covered more than 80,000 Siptu members across the public service. Siptu said workers have faced uncertainty in the absence of a new agreement.

“Exploratory talks with government officials over the last few weeks failed to establish the basis for formal talks to begin, as they did not set out clearly their commitment to a pay strategy in an agreement that would protect the living standards of our members, over the lifetime of a multi-annual engagement," said Siptu general secretary John King.

"The cost-of-living crisis and rising inflation have completely eroded the value of pay increases paid to public servants under the previous agreements and SIPTU members in the public service are determined that they should not pay the price for the Government's delay. Our members deliver essential services every day. Their patience is now being tested.

"It is unacceptable that meaningful negotiations have not begun and that key commitments, including the 1% Local Bargaining Fund, remain outstanding. Our ballots will send a clear message to the Government: public servants expect immediate engagement, fairness and delivery on pay. We will not wait anymore."

Last week, public expenditure minister Jack Chambers has warned trade unions the Government will not sign up to a new pay agreement “at any cost”.

The union called on the Government to immediately begin negotiations and fully implement all outstanding commitments. Mr King said: "If the Government refuses to act, our members will. Public servants are united, determined, and ready to secure the pay they deserve, and SIPTU will stand with them every step of the way."