SIPTU members took to the streets of Galway yesterday (Wednesday ) to mark the second day of strike action by care and community sector workers in a long running dispute in which they are seeking their first pay rise in 14 years.
SIPTU Public Administration and Community Division Organiser, Adrian Kane, said members employed by the Irish Wheelchair Association held a one-day work stoppage on Tuesday which was very successful in highlighting the demand for pay justice for care and community sector workers.
“On pickets across the country our members were overwhelmed by the strong support shown by the public for the strike, with many welcoming the fact the workers were standing up for pay justice in the midst of the worsening cost of living crisis.”
“On Wednesday, SIPTU members in selected community sector organisations, with a particular focus on county Galway and county Waterford, took a similar stand. They conducted 24-hour work stoppages and attended protests in Dublin, Galway and Waterford.
“Their demand is simple and it is for the Government to engage with these workers and their union representatives to discuss funding so they can have their first pay rise in 14 years.”
The industrial action by SIPTU members is part of the Valuing Community campaign for pay justice for workers in the community sector and Section 39 organisations which is supported by SIPTU, ICTU, Fórsa and the INMO.
In the Galway protest, three CE Supervisors took part in the protest. Oranmore/Maree (COMES ) CE Scheme - Supervisor Conor Mahon; Claregalway/Annaghdown CE Scheme, supervisor Michele Rohan and GRD CE Scheme Supervisor Mary Feeney partricipated to highlight the delay in ongoing negotiations on pay increases.
