Fórsa has raised concerns about workplace safety in the houses of the Oireachtas, where the union represents around 200 members in clerical, executive, Dáil usher and other grades. In a letter to the Clerk of the Dáil, the union said only essential functions should take place on site. And it said Dáil committee contributions should continue to be made by remote engagement.

Fórsa official Una Faulkner said the union’s request was based on official Level Five public health advice, which is that people should not attend workplaces unless they are delivering an essential service and that their presence in the workplace is necessary for the service to be provided.

“We are concerned that social distancing is not always properly observed, and that face coverings are not always being worn in Oireachtas buildings. We are also aware of an increasing level of activity in the Oireachtas locations,” she said.

Fórsa subsequently sent a joint letter with the AHCPS to the Ceann Comhairle of the Dáil, outlining the unions’ concerns and highlighting the need for a reduced footfall in Oireachtas locations. The unions have also sought other measures to ensure that workplaces remain compliant with current public health advice.

The clerk of the Dáil responded to the union last week, acknowledging the union’s concerns and outlining the approach of Oireachtas management to ensure public health measures are adhered to.

The head of Fórsa’s Civil Service division Derek Mullen said: “The union’s objective, in writing to the Ceann Comhairle, was to highlight, at the most senior level, the need to adhere to public health guidelines and ensure the proper operation of the return to work protocol. The union continues to work with Oireachtas management to ensure both the continuity of business and the safety of Fórsa members working there.”

Last May, unions reached agreement with employers and the Government on a Covid ‘work safety protocol’. Although it was drawn up in the context of a significant ‘return to work’ after the first wave of the coronavirus, unions subsequently won confirmation that it applies to all workplaces, including in the civil service, regardless of whether staff have spent some time working remotely.

Earlier this month, Fórsa claimed a large number of public service employers were flouting restrictions by unnecessarily requiring staff to attend workplaces when remote working was a viable alternative. Union officials have since reported an improved employer response in many sectors.

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