Thousands of School Secretaries and Caretakers Strike for Fairness

BREAKING: Thousands of school secretaries and caretakers across the country have initiated strike action today amid escalating demands for fair pensions and equal benefits. This urgent situation follows a long-standing dispute that Fórsa’s Director of Education, Shane Lambert, describes as a “decades-old injustice” affecting these essential staff.

The strike, which began on Thursday, has already disrupted school operations, with secretaries and caretakers withdrawing their labor. Many have gathered in Dublin for a significant protest outside the Department of Public Expenditure at Merrion Square, highlighting the urgency of their demands. “This isn’t just about pay; it’s about recognition,” Lambert stated emphatically.

Fórsa is calling for immediate access to public service pensions, sick leave, critical illness leave, and bereavement leave for these workers. “We’re not asking for the same pay as teachers,” Lambert clarified. “We demand to be recognized as public servants, ensuring fair calculations on pay and pensions.”

In a striking display of solidarity, nearly 1,000 people attended a rally, both in-person and online, showcasing the overwhelming support for the cause. Lambert emphasized that the strike is driven by the workers themselves, stating, “Our members have endured an absolute injustice for years, and they’ve told us enough is enough.”

Following today’s rally, five regional protests are scheduled for Friday, with regular picketing of schools set to begin next week. The union plans to picket local representatives on Tuesday, further amplifying their message.

“This disruption will only escalate,” Lambert warned. “These staff members play a critical role in the daily running of schools. They want to be there to greet children and support parents, but they have been left with no choice.” The strike has garnered widespread attention, as other unions have indicated they will not cover for striking workers.

Despite ongoing negotiation attempts at the Workplace Relations Commission, no resolution has been reached. Lambert criticized government attitudes, stating, “Since the 2010s, the Department of Public Expenditure has focused on keeping public service numbers and pay down. This mentality has to change for fairness to prevail.”

For secretaries and caretakers to return to work, Lambert insists on a “written commitment” to integrate them into the pension scheme alongside a clear timeline for negotiations. “We want schools to be full public service workplaces, where every worker is treated fairly,” he asserted.

Fórsa’s members remain resolute, prepared to continue their strike until their demands are met. “This has gone on too long,” Lambert concluded. “Our members just want to close this chapter and be treated with the respect they deserve.”

Stay tuned for updates as this urgent strike action unfolds, with significant implications for the education sector across the country.