Public service unions overwhelmingly endorsed the new agreement called Building Momentum earlier this week. Fórsa was among the 13 ICTU-affiliated public service unions that backed the deal after its members supported it by a 96% margin in a national ballot.

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has said that employers of workers who refuse Covid-19 vaccinations should undertake a risk assessment in cases where the staff member could be exposed to Covid-19 in the workplace.

Fórsa has said that workers in the health service deserve recognition for their emergency response during the Covid crisis.

A new memo issued last week by the HSE provides guidance to health employers on compliance with rest provisions, and maximum weekly working hours, during the Covid-19 pandemic.

An adjustment to the rollout of Covid vaccines announced this week will see those aged 16-69, with a medical condition that puts them at very high risk (‘cohort 4’), vaccinated directly after those aged over 70 and living in the community.

The terms of reference for a review of how children’s needs will be assessed under the terms of the Disability Act (2005) are expected to be agreed next week.

Fórsa has lodged a claim for workers in community and voluntary agencies funded by the child and family protection agency Tusla. These are known as ‘section 56’ agencies.

Fórsa president Michael Smyth is organising a mental health webinar for members which will focus on building resilience. The virtual event takes place between 1.00pm and 2.00pm on Thursday 4th March.