SIPTU Retained Firefighters In Wicklow Vote To Accept Labour Court Recommendation On Pay

SIPTU Retained Firefighters have voted to accept a Labour Court recommendation aimed at resolving a long-running pay dispute with 64% balloting in favour and 36% against.

Public Administration and Community Division Organiser, Brendan O’Brien, said: “This brings a key stage in this dispute to a conclusion. SIPTU representatives will notify the management side on our members acceptance of the terms of the Labour Court recommendation and seek clarity on when payment will begin at the new increased rate.

“This agreement could only have been secured because of  the dedication and solidarity shown by our members across the Retained Fire Service. It is a clear example of when Union members work together we can achieve progressive change that benefits workers and the wider community.”

SIPTU Sector Organiser, Con Casey, said: “The SIPTU Retained Firefighter National Committee will meet shortly to consider the outcome of the ballot and to discuss the next steps in our campaign to create a service which can meet the needs of the country into the future.”

He added: “This agreement has secured the earlier introduction of increased retainer payments and restructured working hours for our members. However, there remains issues around recruitment and retention in the service that we will continue to focus on until they are fully resolved.”