Siptu recently declared that a strike at the National Advocacy Service (NAS) was called off within a few hours, thanks to a promise from the management to negotiate complete enforcement of a Labour Court recommendation on remuneration and working conditions.
It was anticipated that approximately 50 employees would partake in the strike with pickets being established at NAS branches across the UK including Dublin, Limerick, and Cork.
Nevertheless, following consensus being met, Siptu announced in a Wednesday afternoon statement that its members had stopped the strike.
The NAS staff, who are advocates for disabled individuals in their interactions with established public bodies, often assist these individuals navigate access to services such as accommodation, healthcare, and legal services.
The contention is primarily about the unchanged pay and conditions since the establishment of NAS as a separate entity, over ten years ago.
NAS receives funding from the Citizens Information Board (CIB), which is in turn supported by the Department of Social Protection. While the NAS acknowledged the grievances of their staff, they claimed their hands were tied unless the funding for expenses was raised.
A recommendation for new pay scales was given by the Labour Court in January. Siptu reveals it has now been informed that the recommendation will be adopted.
Siptu activist Suzy Byrne stated they were relieved the strike ended and were pleased to continue working. She highlighted the importance of negotiations taking place on June 24th. An external mediator will be involved.
In addition, NAS national manager Joanne Condon thanked the staff for returning to work. She promised to progressively resolve the salary-related concerns that instigated the dispute and emphasised on the uninterrupted service to those who rely on NAS.
CIB has expressed its support for the recent events.