Fórsa has established that rumours that Revenue staff could be rostered over a 12-hour period as a result of PAYE modernisation are incorrect.

In negotiations about the PAYE modernisation project, management has instead proposed a nine-to-five working arrangement, which could develop into an eight-to-five span depending on work volumes.

If that happens, there would be provision for hours worked beyond five to be covered by the standard overtime arrangements. The same would go for any Saturday working that was required.

Fórsa officials have insisted that overtime should be on a voluntary basis.

Management has also said some rostering may occur if cover can’t be achieved locally. This would be agreed through discussions with the union.

Continuing discussions are focussing on proposals for extended opening hours for the employer helpline. Fórsa national secretary Derek Mullen has criticised management’s handling of the discussions, including the circulation of rumours about rostering.

“Our criticism of management’s approach led to the current proposal, which contained no reference to a 12-hour span,” he said.

The main location for the employer helpline is Nenagh, with overflow capability to Newcastlewest, BMW locations Galway and Dundalk, and possibly Cork.

Discussions will continue over coming weeks.