On Tuesday 18th August talks in relation to Information and Communications Technology (ICT) workers in local authorities reconvened at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).
The talks took place as part of the engagement mapped out for a high-level working group, established to address issues facing ICT professionals in local authorities, following industrial action earlier this year.
In July, Fórsa informed members of its intention to formally withdraw from the working group because management had concluded that grading would not be part of the process, despite the agreed terms of reference unambiguously stating that the purpose of the group was to “develop definitive, implementable proposals” on ICT structure and grading, continuous professional development (CPD) and a framework for out of hours work.
Head of division Richy Carrothers explained that the terms of reference were central to ensuring the negotiations covered all issues in dispute.
He said: “In the initial stages of this process we put a lot of effort into ensuring the terms of reference were robust and comprehensive.”
“We had also discussed the issue of grading at every meeting of the high-level group and tabled an analysis document, so we were very disheartened when management sought to jettison grading. Faced with this impasse we felt the only solution was to withdraw from the process and ‘un-pause’ industrial action.”
“Thankfully, following conciliation under the auspices of the WRC, the process is now back on track, with formal recognition from management that they will adhere to the terms of reference.”
A series of engagements is scheduled between now and the further reconvened conciliation meeting in October.
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