Thursday 11th July 2013

IMPACT members have backed a deal on a single set of terms and conditions for office-based staff in Limerick city and county councils by a margin of 85%. The two authorities are merging into a single local authority under Government reform plans.

Under the new agreement, existing office-based staff, up to and including SEE/AO cognate level, will work 35 hours and 15 minutes a week. The new roster takes effect in both councils from 15th July.

IMPACT official Andy Pike said the merger had presented several challenges. “Management has acknowledged the contribution of staff throughout a challenging merger process which, in a significant development in the history of the county, will see a single local authority for Limerick. A merger like this is bound to present challenges, which is why it was important to have proper engagement throughout the consultation process,” he said.

A redeployment protocol is already in place for office-based staff in Dooradoyle and the Limerick city centre office and further staff movement is now planned for the summer and autumn period. Staff in a number of departments have already moved to new single departments and all the redeployment has taken place without any disruption to the public.