Chambers says Government hopes to shortly outline framework for public sector pay talks

Jack Chambers says funding is available for a successor agreement and the Government is willing to prioritise pay in negotiations

Jack Chambers said the Government was “ready” to begin negotiations with trade union leaders following Wednesday’s strike. Picture: PA

The Government hopes provide further details shortly on an agreed framework for beginning pay talks with trade unions, public expenditure minister Jack Chambers has said.

Mr Chambers said the Government was “ready” to begin negotiations with trade union leaders following Wednesday’s strike, which saw more than 300,000 workers take part in picketing.

“Our message to public servants is straightforward: there is funding available for a new agreement, and Government is ready to engage immediately and constructively,” Mr Chambers said.

He described the process as a “sensitive matter”, adding that this was why he could not provide TDs with “further detail at this time”.

“However, I hope to be able to provide further details shortly and as part of an agreed way forward,” Mr Chambers said.

Government ready to prioritise pay in union talks

Speaking in the Dáil, Mr Chambers said unions had “legitimate concerns” about pay and the cost of living.

“It is entirely appropriate that unions raise those concerns on behalf of their members. But if we are to make real progress, we need to move forward together into meaningful negotiation,” he said.

Mr Chambers said the Government was willing to prioritise pay in the talks, adding that nobody wanted to see workers on picket lines.

“I know that the nurses, teachers and wider public servants taking industrial action this week would much rather be at work, delivering the essential services that communities rely on every day,” he told the Dáil.

The minister said he welcomed confirmation that unions would adhere to the principle of collective bargaining, meaning that nothing was agreed until everything was agreed.

“That can provide a basis for constructive engagement while ensuring all parties have the opportunity to address the issues that are important to them,” Mr Chambers said.

Minister hopeful of agreement ‘shortly’

“The Government has made clear its willingness to negotiate, confirmed that all issues can be discussed through the established framework, and set aside substantial resources for a successor agreement.

“In that context, I want to make progress, and I am hopeful that it may be possible to find a way forward shortly in the national interest and in the interest of the millions of people who rely on our public services.” 

Mr Chambers was speaking in the Dáil in response to a Labour Party motion on a new public pay deal.