The International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) has called on world Governments to back labour rights as part of an industrial policy that supports a ‘just transition’ to a zero-emissions economy.

Fórsa has welcomed the Government’s decision to maintain its existing policy of a staggered and phased return to workplaces, instead of revising Covid-19 safety regulations to lift all restrictions on workplace attendance from the end of this week.

New figures issued from the Revenue Commissions indicate that only 10% of people filed a tax return containing a remote working claim this year. 

Fórsa general secretary Kevin Callinan has called for an expansion of employer PRSI contributions, taxes on wealth, and “meaningful financial deterrence for environmentally-damaging activities.”

Unions affiliated to the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) have signed up to six commitments aimed at promoting good mental health and supporting workers who experience mental ill health, including anxiety and depression.

The case for the four-day working week was highlighted at a Fórsa event at ICTU's BDC conference in Belfast earlier this week.

Fórsa general secretary Kevin Callinan was officially elected as president of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) at its biennial delegate conference, which took place in Belfast earlier this week.

Delegates from unions across the island of Ireland have backed a Fórsa call for better cooperation in communications, research and union organising in emerging growth sectors of the economy.