Irish Public Sector Unions Call 24-Hour Strike for November 12

Public sector unions in Ireland have announced a 24-hour nationwide strike for Thursday, November 12, following the collapse of intensive pay negotiations. The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) and Fórsa scheduled the action after talks concluded in an impasse on October 31, with union leaders stating the government has failed to provide a credible offer to address inflation and the rising cost of living.

The strike will involve hundreds of thousands of workers, including doctors, nurses, teachers, and civil servants. Planned activities include a major rally in Dublin and several regional demonstrations. The timing coincides with the European Political Community Summit in Dublin, though union leaders attributed the date to logistical needs and a desire to vary the day of the week from previous actions.

This escalation follows a massive strike on October 14 that caused widespread disruption to schools, courts, and hospitals. In response to the recent deadlock, the Workplace Relations Commission requested that a government-appointed group seek a resolution. While the Government of Ireland maintains it is committed to a pay deal that is affordable and sustainable, unions are considering intensifying work-to-rule actions and pursuing further industrial activity beyond the November 12 date. Unions remain open to dialogue and are scheduled to meet with the government-appointed group on November 3.