Public service strike on Wednesday “can be avoided”, says a minister, as the Dáil sitting is cancelled
RTÉ reported a minister saying the strike called for Wednesday 14 October can be avoided. The Irish Examiner reported that unions expect more than 100,000 workers out, that the HSE expects widespread disruption and will cancel non-urgent services, and that €1.2bn has been set aside in Budget 27 for a new pay deal. The Irish Times reported that Wednesday's Dáil sitting was cancelled.
A strike across the public service touches schools, hospitals and parliament at once. The question is whether talks can start before Wednesday on an agenda both sides accept.
Check your child's school and any hospital appointment for Wednesday. Non-urgent HSE services are expected to be cancelled, and a second strike day is planned for 21 October.
Unions say pay has fallen behind inflation and that pay must come first in talks.
The Government says it has money set aside and that the strike can be avoided if talks start without preconditions.
Watch for an agreed agenda today or tomorrow. If none emerges, expect closures on Wednesday and pressure to move the 21 October date.
DailyDrop Ireland edition No. 8 · Morning · MON., OCT. 12, 2026