Fórsa has formally called on the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA), the employers’ organisation for local authorities, and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage to take prompt action in advancing the local bargaining claims for members working across the 31 city and county councils throughout Ireland. 

Head of division Richy Carrothers expressed disappointment regarding the lengthy timeframe, saying: “There is huge frustration among members at the inordinate amount of time it is taking to progress and finalise discussions. We submitted our claims in good faith, following consultation with members, who had a justifiable expectation that these matters would be addressed and progressed in a reasonable timeframe. “ 

Richy went on to urge management negotiators to expedite the flow of information to ensure union members’ concerns are resolved in a timely manner. He said: “We began discussions with the LGMA and the Department last year regarding our sector-specific claims. It’s very frustrating for members to see that workers in other sectors are now seeing the real impact of local bargaining pay increases in their pockets, while in the local authority sector discussions remain ongoing.” 

 
Local bargaining is a type of collective bargaining featured in the Public Service Agreement 2024-2026. It allows grades, groups or categories to negotiate claims up to 3% of overall payroll costs.  The first phase is effective from 1st September 2025, with a further second phase to be agreed as part of a new agreement.  

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