Fórsa is insisting that flexitime be reinstated for local authority workers who have returned to workplaces and are back on their normal hours and work patterns.

Fórsa has criticised a recent Government announcement to improve parental leave provision as the “bare minimum,” which Ireland is obliged to introduce under European law.

Fórsa has given a guarded welcome to yesterday’s announcement of the largest ever Government-funded stimulus package, which will see over €7 billion pumped into the economy – mostly in the short-term – through supports to businesses and incomes.

New official guidance has clarified that civil and public servants who return from non-essential overseas travel must take annual leave or unpaid leave to cover the subsequent quarantine period.

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) has welcomed the Government’s decision to appeal a High Court ruling that effectively abolished official minimum wage levels in sectors like construction.

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions has warned against an “emerging culture of hatred and intolerance,” which is being fuelled by far-right groups.