Fórsa this week welcomed the Budget announcement of improved tax relief for heating and electricity costs that arise from home working. But the union said meeting the additional costs associated with remote working remained under discussion in talks on a long-term framework for ‘blended working’ in the public service.

The Cabinet will meet next Tuesday (19th October) to finalise the Government’s approach to the proposed removal of Covid-related public health restrictions, originally planned for next Friday (22nd October).

Maintaining living standards against a background of rising living costs will be the priority in future pay negotiations, according to Fórsa general secretary Kevin Callinan. 

Fórsa has backed calls for full compensation for homeowners affected by the mica homes scandal. The union formally backed the call for full redress for those affected at a meeting of its national executive in September.

Fórsa has expressed concern that over 350,000 pensioners could be hit with PRSI for the first time under new proposals from the Pensions Commission.

The introduction of a four-day working week would decrease burnout, increase productivity, and establish a better work-life balance, according to Fórsa’s general secretary.

Public expenditure minister Michael McGrath has asked the Labour-Employer Economic Forum (LEEF) to explore the issue of recognition for workers who made exceptional efforts during the pandemic, including those who had high exposure to the Covid-19 virus.

Munster Technological University (MTU) has launched a period dignity project, which includes the provision of free sanitary products to students and staff.