SIPTU and FÁS resume talks on decentralisation dispute

SIPTU representatives and FÁS management have resumed talks at the Labour Relations Commission in an effort to resolve the ongoing dispute about decentralisation at the jobs agency.

FAS staff have been engaged in a campaign of protest for the past few weeks, saying they are not interested in moving to Birr, Co Offaly.

They have also accused the agency of breaching the voluntary nature of decentralisation by limiting promotions to people who are willing to relocate.

SIPTU has said it is "cautiously optimistic" about the outcome of the fresh talks in light of the Taoiseach and Tánaiste's acceptance that the scheme is causing major concern.