In a big step forward for neurodivergent workers in local authorities, Fórsa has put forward a claim seeking the introduction of a neurodiversity policy across the sector. 

Head of the Local Government and Local Services and Municipal Divisions, Richy Carrothers tabled the claim at this week’s Local Authority National Council (LANC). 

Richy said, “Neurodiversity is a trade union issue. The local government sector needs to engage with us to develop a policy that recognises the importance of equality and inclusion.” 

The move follows a motion passed at the Local Government and Local Services divisional conference in May. The motion compels Fórsa to seek the introduction of a neurodiversity policy across the local government sector. 

Richy said, “We have heard from members across Fórsa who don’t feel comfortable being open with their employers and coworkers about being neurodivergent. They fear it will affect their career progression and how they are treated.” 

“In Fórsa we know that involving disabled and neurodivergent workers makes us a stronger union. It is now time employers across the local government sector recognise that involving disabled and neurodivergent workers makes for a better workplace.” He continued. 

While the claim is a watershed moment for neurodivergent workers in the local government sector, the specifics of the policy are still undecided. 

Richy is adamant that any neurodiversity policy should provide appropriate protections and supports for neurodiverse workers. 

He pointed to the ICTU Neurodiversity guide as an important resource for building any future policy. Published last year, the guide was a collaborative effort between ICTU, Neuro Pride Ireland, and a wide array of other contributors from neurodiversity representative organisations. 

The guide serves as an important explainer on neurodiversity in the workplace. It explains what it means to be a neurodiverse person, how being neurodiverse can shape how a person interacts with their coworkers and workplace, and what neuropositive policies and practices could look like.  

Richy said, “Ultimately, it will be important to hear input from neurodiverse workers in the sector when we start shaping the policy. Tabling the claim is the first step, developing an empowering and effective policy will be the real work ahead.” 

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