Historic deal allows military personnel to join trade union body

Around 6,500 frontline military personnel are allowed the right of temporary association to the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) pending an amendment of the Defence Amendment Act 1990 which will then allow PDForra's members permanent affiliation. File picture

Rank and file soldiers will for the first time have a voice at upcoming national pay talks after a settlement announced in the High Court allows the representative body PDforra to have temporary associate membership of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU).

The ICTU temporary status is solely for the forthcoming pay negotiations up to June 30, 2024, or until relevant amending legislation is passed.