Decentralisation plan faces union criticism

THE Government’s failure to consult with unions before announcing its controversial decentralisation plan will come in for heavy criticism today as public servants from all Government departments gather in Tralee, Co Kerry.

As delegates of the 9,000-strong Public Service Executive Union (PSEU) convene for their annual conference today and tomorrow, decentralisation will dominate the proceedings with the majority of motions expressing anger and concern at decentralisation.

The plan to relocate 10,000 civil and public servants to more than 50 locations around the country was a surprise announcement in December's Budget.