Public sector unions plan national strikes on 14 and 21 October as pay talks stall
Unions have planned national strikes on 14 and 21 October after unions and the Government could not agree an agenda for pay talks (Irish Examiner, RTÉ, Fórsa). The previous public pay deal expired in June 2026. Fórsa reported 96.6% support for industrial action on a 72.6% turnout, and SIPTU and the INMO reported similar results. The Irish Times reported that Micheál Martin called the dispute "unwarranted given our willingness to talk" (7 October). Jack Chambers has said any deal must be sustainable and affordable.
Public sector workers include nurses, teachers and civil servants. Strikes affect hospitals, schools and services.
If a strike goes ahead, check with your hospital, school or council in advance. Dates may still change.
Unions say pay has fallen behind inflation and that members have a strong mandate.
The Government says it is ready to talk but that any deal must be affordable and not set unwelcome precedents for other pay.
The first strike day is five days away. The test is whether the two sides agree an agenda for talks before 14 October.
DailyDrop Ireland edition No. 5 · Morning · FRI., OCT. 9, 2026