Public sector strike called off after early‑morning talks

The second public‑sector strike scheduled for 12 November has been suspended following negotiations that continued until 4 a.m. on Wednesday.

Government officials presented a revised pay offer of a 10.75 % increase spread over two years and nine months, and gave the unions 48 hours to consider it. Kevin Callinan confirmed the industrial action would be halted while unions take the proposal to their members for a vote, aiming for a decision early in the week beginning 7 December.

Details of the agreement

The deal backs the 10.75 % rise, including local bargaining adjustments, and sets the period from July 2026 (when the previous agreement expires) to March 2029. The Exchequer’s cost is estimated at €5.2 billion across five budgets over the 33‑month term.

Payments will be made in eight instalments, the first on 1 September 2026, with a minimum €1,200 or a 2 % increase – whichever is greater – to assist lower‑paid workers. Subsequent payments are scheduled through August 2027 and beyond.

Union representatives will ballot their members in the second week of December, with the expectation that a final decision will be reached before the end of the year.

Source: Newstalk. Photo: Alex Hrek / Pexels.