Aviation employers like Aer Lingus have taken a tumble down in rankings as the choice of employer for professionals in 2021.

Fórsa and SIPTU, representing workers in local employment services (LES) and job clubs, are expected to meet with officials of the Department of Social Protection in early November. 

The group of unions representing staff at DAA, the State company responsible for managing Dublin and Cork airports, has referred an issue over pay progression and increments to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).

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

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).

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 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.

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.