Fórsa has contacted library workers and provided information on how best to keep safe, following reports that far right agitators were once again visiting libraries to harass and abuse staff.

In a note to members, Head of Fórsa’s Local Government and Municipal Employees’ Divisions, Richy Carrothers encouraged members to “be vigilant” as the protection of workers is the top priority. 

“Since 2022 Fórsa has continued to support library workers as they were repeatedly subjected to vicious and vile attacks by far-right agitators who came to their workplaces.  Library workers have had abuse hurled at them while being recorded and their safety at work was gravely threatened. The protection of staff in their workplace is the primary responsibility of local authority management and we continue to work with management to ensure staff are safe and secure in their place of work,” he said. 

Richy urged members to contact local management as a matter of urgency advising of this development in order that protective measures can be put in place. 

“The protection of public libraries and their staff from attacks by the far right should be regarded as a priority for everyone in a civilised society. All measures necessary should be taken to eliminate opportunities to intimidate or harass library staff,” he continued. 

Delegates to Fórsa’s national conference last May unanimously voted to back a motion instructing the union to support members that may be subjected to far-right agitation and backlash in their workplace and communities. The motion also called on the NEC to work with branches to promote positive relations between communities and people living in direct provision and asylum centres and strengthen our efforts to counter the rise of far-right ideology in Ireland.

Speaking to the motion, Cathaoirleach of the Local Government and Local Services Division Michael Whyms told delegates that the far- right is no friend of workers. “While we build communities and connection, they seek only to sow division. The solidarity this union showed library workers last year demonstrates how powerful we are when we stand together,” he said.

Fórsa continues to stand against the far right’s hateful messages of racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia and bigotry.

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