Fórsa activist and chair of the union’s Civil Service Division, Helen Linehan, has been appointed as chairperson to the civil service staff panel.

The civil panel comprises of representatives from Fórsa, the AHCPS, the Prison Officers Association and the Veterinary Officers Association who co-ordinate union activity on issues of common concern in the civil service. It meets in advance of general council, where union and management representatives negotiate civil service industrial relations issues.

Formerly of the CPSU, Helen is a stalwart activist who has represented union members for almost 30 years. As member of Fórsa’s Cork Clerical General Branch she was elected chair of the Civil Service Division in 2021 before being appointed chair of the staff panel earlier this year. 

“It is a huge honour to be appointed as chair,” said Helen. “There is a significant body of work involved but I’m delighted to get started and will work hard to serve the members.”

Head of division Derek Mullen congratulated Helen on her appointment. “Helen is an excellent activist, the staff panel is in safe hands,” he said.