FAS workers begin pickets over decentralisation

Hundreds of FAS workers have begun a work-stoppage this morning, after talks between management and SIPTU broke down at the Labour Relations Commission last night.

The dispute centres around plans to decentralise the agency to Birr in Co Offaly.

Up to 90% of employees are refusing to relocate.

Only six out of the 400 workers in question have agreed to relocate and the decentralisation process is due to be completed by 2009.

Union members have begun the picket outside four FAS offices in Dublin city, including Baggot Street, the South Circular Road and Adelaide Road.

The strike is due to continue for the next two-and-a-half hours.

SIPTU said it is regrettable they have to take this action but that they are looking for a resolution to the dispute.

Spokesperson Greg Ennis said: “We have been asking for the past two-and-a-half years what is going to happen to the 394 people who do not wish to volunteer. What is their future, what is their job security? We have got no answers to those questions.”