SIPTU members employed in some community organisations are to go on strike in Waterford, Galway, and Dublin today (Wednesday).
It marks the second day of strike action by care and community sector workers in a long-running dispute where they are seeking their first pay rise in 14 years.
SIPTU Public Administration and Community Division Organiser, Adrian Kane, said: “yesterday, our members employed by the Irish Wheelchair Association held a one-day work stoppage. This was very successful in highlighting the demand for pay justice for care and community sector workers.
“On pickets across the country our members were overwhelmed by the strong support shown by the public for the strike, with many welcoming the fact the workers were standing up for pay justice in the midst of the worsening cost of living crisis.”
He added: “Today SIPTU members in selected community sector organisations, with a particular focus on Galway and Waterford, are taking a similar stand. They will be conducting 24-hour work stoppages and attending protests in Dublin, Galway and Waterford.
“Their demand is simple and it is for the Government to engage with these workers and their union representatives to discuss funding so they can have their first pay rise in 14 years.”
The organisations involved in Waterford are Active People Community Group, Ballybeg CDP, Cappoquin Community Employment, Caring in Waterford, Compact Community CE Scheme, Tay Valley CLG and West Waterford GAA Clubs.
The industrial action by SIPTU members is part of the Valuing Community campaign for pay justice for workers in the community sector and Section 39 organisations which is supported by SIPTU, ICTU, Fórsa and the INMO.
Today's protest in Waterford will take place outside the Department of Social Protection building on the Cork Road from 12pm until 2pm.
