Library staff have accepted Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) recommendations on staffing levels and so-called ‘staffless’ library services. The package was accepted by over 80% of those who voted, after the union’s Local Government Division executive recommended the proposals.

The head of Fórsa’s Local Government Division, Peter Nolan, has since written to branches advising them to seek immediate negotiations on staffing levels and shortages in local library services. “It’s essential that branches seize this opportunity to address staffing levels in local authority libraries,” he said.

Peter said the acceptance of the WRC proposals was an important victory for the union and the future of library services, and represented the resolution of several long-running disputes in the sector.

The WRC proposals include safeguards preventing the roll-out of staffless library pilots until a joint review by union and management is complete. The agreement also includes protection of staffed opening hours, and covers staff qualifications, procedures for filling posts, and the provision of health and safety risk assessments.