Dear Member,
Following intensive negotiations, the Fingal FÓRSA Local Government Branch is delighted to confirm that People Services have agreed to amend the eligibility criteria for the Work Sharing Scheme, which will be included in the application form to be issued this month for year 2026 and onwards.
The updated eligibility criteria will now align with other Local Authorities by adopting the 2002 Local Government Circular, which includes:
- Family Responsibilities (e.g. childcare or caring for a dependent adult).
- Educational Purposes.
- Facilitating a person Recognised as Having Exceptional Sporting or Cultural Ability in Pursuing a Particular Goal.
- Assisting in the Transition to Retirement.
- Assisting in Meeting a Person’s Individual Circumstances.
These broader criteria will enable better flexible working arrangements for staff who need them most.
The Fingal Branch thanks People Services for their proactive approach in listening to member submissions and agreeing to widen the eligibility criteria.
Background
In March this year, the Fingal FÓRSA Branch surveyed members about workplace issues. Many staff expressed dissatisfaction with the existing Work Sharing eligibility criteria and the lack of parity with other Local Authorities.
The Branch raised the issue during Industrial Relations meetings. After a stalemate, a second survey in July confirmed overwhelming member support—98% endorsed adding “Assisting in Meeting a Person’s Individual Circumstances” to the eligibility criteria.
With this strong mandate, negotiations with People Services continued but initially seemed at an impasse. Knowing how important this was to members, the Branch held Teams meetings last week, where many voiced their support passionately.
Bringing this feedback directly to People Services in a special meeting on Tuesday made the difference. Today, we are thrilled to announce that People Services will adopt the 2002 criteria for Work Sharing, significantly broadening eligibility and ensuring fairness for all staff.
This change belongs to you—the engaged and enthusiastic members who made your voices heard from the start. Congratulations on your commitment to fairness and equality!
Kind regards,
Geraldine Whelan
Fingal Fórsa Branch Chair
Like