Fórsa is conducting a survey to gain a more comprehensive understanding of LGBTQI+ members' experiences, both in and out of the workplace, and members still have time to take part.

This survey aims to provide objective statistical analysis to help inform our upcoming Fórsa Equality seminar, taking place on Wednesday 27th November 2024. The survey also sets out to inform policy and procedures when raising such matters with respective employers.

The trade union movement has long been a shining light of support for LGBTQI+ people and has been instrumental in battling discrimination and fighting for equality for the LGBTQI+ community. 

In 1982 LGPSU activist Kieran Rose brought a motion to an ICTU conference supporting the decriminalisation of homosexual acts on the basis of equality, and calling for equality legislation. This was the first motion if its kind, thus sparking hard fought trade union campaigns, spanning decades, which further improved the rights of LGBTQI+ people. 

Over 40 years later, at Fórsa’s biennial Conference in May 2024, delegates voted overwhelmingly in favour of a motion proposed by the Galway Health and Local Government branch, instructing the incoming National Executive Committee to establish a LGBTQI+ network to support all members and staff who identify as a member of the LGBTQI+ community. 

Fórsa will formally mark the establishment of the Fórsa LGBTQI+ network, and launch “Trade Unions and Progress, a personal history” by Kieran Rose at the union’s Equality Seminar. Places are limited and branches will be facilitated on a first come first serve basis. Early registration is encouraged.

Members interested in attending should speak to their branch and register their attendance here. 

If you require any further information, please contact Róisín McKane at rmckane@forsa.ie. 

Join a union that wins. Join Fórsa.