Terms of reference for the working group formed to address key issues in the recent dispute regarding grading and working conditions for Information and Communications Technology (ICT) workers in local authorities have been agreed. 

The joint union-management working group was established during conciliation talks at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) in February, following industrial action by ICT workers in all local authorities across Ireland.  

The group will address the three issues at the heart of the dispute: continuous professional development, the establishment of a national framework for out-of-hours work and the sector-wide review of ICT grading.  It includes representatives from Fórsa, the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) and from the County and City Management Association (CCMA).

Head of the local government and local services division Richy Carrothers said: “We’re pleased to have made progress with the agreement of robust terms of reference for this group. These terms will underpin the group’s discussions, so it was vital that the key issues were outlined, which they have been.”  

“The scope of the group’s work is clearly stated, and the parties have committed to putting forward evidence-based proposals, as well as the timely, transparent exchange of information.” 

He continued: “The terms of reference are also explicit that this working group is not to be a talking shop, its core function is to produce clear proposals and seek to reach an agreement that can be implemented, which is welcome.” 

Discussions will now proceed, with the parties due to return to the WRC on Thursday 28th May for a progress report and to look at next steps. 

Join a union that wins. Join Fórsa.