Fórsa members working at St. Christopher's Services community disability services in Longford have been balloting this week for industrial action following the breach of a 2021 collective agreement on the payment of increments.

The ballot of members opened on Monday (22nd). Fórsa official Tony Martin explained: “The issue in dispute is the breach of a collective agreement around the payment of increments.

“The employer informed union members, at a meeting in March, that the HSE had requested that the payment of increments be suspended in 2024, until further notice, as the health body was unable to provide the necessary funding.

“A general meeting of members was attended by more than 70 members, and we are now balloting for industrial action - up to and including strike action – with the backing of Fórsa’s Health and Welfare divisional executive,” he said.

Tony had notified St Christopher’s that it is now in a trade dispute with Fórsa, and said the union remained available for talks on a resolution of the issue.

The ballot remains open until 12 noon next Monday (29th April).

There’s never been a better time to join a union, and it’s never been easier. Join Fórsa today.