Local authority staff to mount pickets in Swords

Local authority workers are to mount pickets in Swords, Co Dublin, as part of a nationwide campaign against the pension levy for public-sector employees.

The action is the second in a series of protests planned by SIPTU to highlight anger over the controversial measure.

Public sector unions say they understand the need to plug the massive hold in the public finances, but the levy places an unfair burden on lower and middle-income staff.