Fórsa has urged workers in local authority water services who are considering transferring to Uisce Éireann to make a decision in early 2026.  

In a statement issued on behalf of Fórsa, SIPTU, Connect and ICTU, the unions voiced concerns about the full implementation of the Framework for Public Water Services as the current transformation period is to conclude in December 2026.  

Head of the local government and local services and the municipal employees’ divisions Richy Carrothers explained: “This means that workers in local authority water services will continue to have the option in 2026 of transferring to Uisce Éireann. We would strongly encourage any worker who wishes to transfer to make that request in early 2026. 

“We will continue to hold Uisce Éireann to account in relation to the commitments in the framework to provide a fully insourced service at the end of the transformation period in December 2026.

Uisce Éireann believes the transfer of workers, paired with direct recruitment, will be enough to make up the workforce they require to provide day-to-day public water services directly; however, unions continue to monitor progress closely.  

Richy also said the group of unions will continue to hold the Government to its commitments under the Framework for Public Water Services, to protect public water services for future generations, saying: “We’ve placed particular emphasis on the importance of Uisce Éireann honouring its commitment to a fully insourced public water service at the end of the transition.” 

In the statement the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) group of unions also called on James Browne TD, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, to set a date for a constitutional referendum to guarantee public ownership of water services and sought a further meeting to advance the commitment to a referendum, and to ensure that public water services can never be privatised. It follows ongoing engagement with the minister this year.  

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