Recent events in Hungary, where a new law was passed that discriminates against LGBTQ people while claiming to protect children, illustrate that homophobia is alive and well in the EU. Ireland has played a leadership role in promoting the rights of the LGBTI+ community in recent years but recent events in Waterford and Dublin illustrate … Continued
As you are aware Unionlink, our online learning platform, has been in operation for some time and provides a variety of courses for members and representatives. At this stage, we would like to hear from our members, by completing this brief survey on what courses you would like to see us offer and how we … Continued
The international community watches in horror at the ongoing Israeli atrocities, the bombing of Gaza, evictions in Jerusalem, street violence and arrests. But, while many national leaders are quick to condemn the actions, they are slow to move beyond the rhetoric. Worse still, the US continues to defend Israeli action and has used its veto … Continued
The oppression of the Palestinian people is one of the most urgent issues facing the world today. Having suffered more than seven decades of displacement and discrimination and over 50 years of military occupation, daily life for people in the occupied West Bank and Gaza is defined by poverty, restrictions, humiliation and murder with impunity. … Continued
The Congress Executive Council met today and reiterates our solidarity with the people of Palestine. Our position is clear: Palestinians in Gaza and the Occupied Territories face persecution and denial of human rights by an occupying power in breach of international law. Palestinians in Israel face persecution and denial of human rights in what is … Continued
Since the latest round of National Strike mobilisations began on 28 April 2021, Colombian police and apparent para-state agents have committed extreme abuses. The Colombian government have stigmatised the protestors and defended police actions. There has been a deluge of international condemnation. Background: On 28 April 2021, huge mobilisations took place across Colombia to reject … Continued
The next Congress Friday Briefing will take place on Friday 28 May at 10.30am via Webex Events on the subject of Collective Benefit. This briefing will focus on a forthcoming Fórsa Trade Union report, Collective Benefit – Harnessing the power of representation for economic and social progress, which is due to be launched on the … Continued
In 1980, a group of Civil Service Unions were concerned about the terrible poverty experienced by those in what was then called the Third World. They decided to form a body which, although modest, could play a part in one way or another, to help eliminate some of this poverty which is rampant throughout the … Continued
May the 1st is recognised internationally as the day to commemorate the historic struggles and gains made by workers and the labour movement around the world. To mark the day ICTU General Secretary Patricia King and ICTU Assistant General Secretary Owen Reidy said: “We have lived through unprecedented times, however, we can be confident that … Continued
Presidential Address – Carol Scheffer Thank you, dear Ana, and Cinzia. I am overwhelmed and deeply grateful for your kind words. It is an honour for me on behalf of the Communications Workers’ Union in Ireland to take up the important role of President of the UNI Europa Women’s Committee. I am grateful for the … Continued
Address by Seán McDonagh, Deputy General Secretary, CWU Ireland Colleagues, At the outset, I extend the very best wishes to you all from CWU Ireland and that you stay safe in these most extraordinary dangerous and difficult times. Indeed, the COVID-19 crisis has demonstrated the value of workers and Unions leading the way in maintaining … Continued
Steve Fitzpatrick, the General Secretary of the CWU speaking on Workers Memorial Day stated “On Workers Memorial Day we remember all of those who have been killed, disabled or injured at work. The theme for Workers’ Memorial Day this year is “Workplace Health and Safety – its Your Right”. The Trade Union movement has provided … Continued
Below is a new Congress summary briefing on the delivery of affordable homes/ public housing and the creation of a new model for secure tenancy in the rental sector. The summary briefing highlights shortcomings in current government housing policy and delivery of new homes along with problems in relation to the draft Affordable Housing and Land … Continued
National Remote Work Strategy protects workers from “always on” culture. In an article in Monday’s Irish Times under the headline “Government policy on remote working could hurt flexibility and deter investment” Melanie Crowley of Mason Hayes and Curran suggested “the cap on working hours needs to be removed and the right to disconnect needs to … Continued
UNI Commerce is calling for a global solidarity campaign against union-busting at Metro AG stores in Pakistan following the unfair dismissal of Tahir Mehmood, General Secretary of Metro Habib Employees Union. UNI Commerce calls on unions, workers, labour and human rights activists and all those concerned with social justice from across the globe to sign … Continued
Congress supports the call by the Financial Services Union (FSU) for the establishment of a forum by governments in the Republic and Northern Ireland to discuss the future of banking and financial sectors on the island. General Secretary Patricia King said thousands of workers face turmoil following the scandal at Davy Stockbrokers and recent announcements … Continued
The ICTU is gravely concerned at the outbreak of violence and disregard for public health guidelines in Dublin at the weekend. Speaking today Patricia King, General Secretary, said: “the violent scenes at Saturday’s protest are unacceptable. Gardaí should be able to go about their work in policing society and keeping people safe without threats of … Continued
It is with the greatest of sadness that we must pass on the news of the sudden passing of John Egan, eir Dublin No.1 Branch Secretary. John was not only an incredible CWU member and activist, but a dear friend to so many of us and his loss will be deeply felt. We would like … Continued
In accordance with the Medical Fund rules and continuing normal practice, a cut-off date for claiming on receipts dated in the calendar year 2020 has been set at Friday 15th January 2021. For the avoidance of doubt, any members with receipts dated between 1st January and 31st December 2020 who have not yet submitted a … Continued
More Democracy at Work is a must! European workers are now facing the massive social and economic consequences brought by the pandemic. An inclusive recovery and just transitions can only be achieved together in democratic manner, including the guarantee that all workers have a say and are effectively involved in the day-to-day life of their … Continued
You may be aware that on November 19th we celebrate International Men’s Day and the important contribution that men make to the world of work, to their family life and to society. The theme for International Men’s Day this year is “Better health for men and boys” and so it is an opportunity to highlight … Continued
Congratulations to all the CWU team on a very successful outcome. Well done to all of our candidates and best wishes for your four year tenure on the Board of An Post. As I said at the recent NEC meeting, we ran a united campaign, and given we started out only looking for four seats … Continued
ICTU General Secretary, Patricia King, said that Budget 2021, which the Minister for Finance has described as the “largest in the history of the state”, does not ensure sufficient support for low-paid workers and low-income families, and risks undermining the recovery in domestic demand. The General Secretary said: “The fiscal expansion outlined by Budget 2021 … Continued
The Irish Congress of Trade Unions notes the decision by the Minister for Social Protection, Heather Humphries, to implement the recommendations of the Low Pay Commission to increase the national minimum wage by 10 cent per hour. Congress representatives withdrew from the Low Pay Commission last week as they could not, in conscience, be a … Continued
