IFUT members across participating universities and higher education institutions successfully withdrew their labour from 12 noon to 1 p.m. on Monday, 5 October, marking the first action in the union’s campaign in the current public sector dispute.
The one-hour stoppage demonstrated members’ solidarity and determination to secure fair pay, delivery of outstanding commitments and respect for collective bargaining.
IFUT thanks every member who participated, together with the branch officers, representatives and activists who organised the action locally. Their commitment helped turn the membership’s decisive democratic mandate into collective action across the sector. We want to thank AMLÉ and the PWO for the support that they and all the students displayed.
The stoppage took place on World Teachers’ Day, a fitting occasion to highlight the contribution of those who teach, research and support our higher education institutions. Respect for that contribution must be reflected in fair pay, decent working conditions and meaningful engagement with the unions representing staff.
Collective action and shared learning
In some institutions, members used the hour of withdrawal to hold informal teach-ins and discussions about the value of collective bargaining, the public service agreement and the issues underpinning the dispute. These gatherings also provided an opportunity to discuss picketing arrangements for the forthcoming strike days on 14 and 21 October.
Some branches invited students and colleagues who are not union members to attend these gatherings and meet those taking action. These invitations were warmly received and helped build understanding of the dispute and the importance of collective organisation.
The success of these activities demonstrated the value of bringing people together to share information, ask questions and discuss the role of trade unions in protecting pay and working conditions. They also provided a practical expression of the shared interests of staff and students in a higher education sector that values and supports its workers.
Not yet a union member? Now is the time to join
Yesterday’s action also showed what colleagues can achieve when they stand together. As we prepare for the next phase, we encourage those who are not yet members of IFUT, or another appropriate trade union, to join now and stand with us during the full-day withdrawals of labour on 14 and 21 October.
Union membership brings collective strength, guidance and support when taking industrial action, and a voice in shaping the outcome of this dispute. By joining, you can help secure the improvements in pay and working conditions that we are campaigning for and share in the benefits of a successful outcome.
Join IFUT at www.ifut.ie and contact your local branch for advice on participating. Every new member strengthens our collective voice.
Why we are taking action
The Public Service Agreement 2024–2026 expired on 30 June. The Government’s failure to engage in meaningful negotiations on a successor agreement has left public service workers without an agreed pay settlement covering the remainder of 2026.
IFUT members are seeking:
· An acceptable pay settlement for July to December 2026.
· Appropriate pay increases for 2027 and under a successor agreement.
· Early conclusion and full implementation of outstanding claims under the 3% Local Bargaining Clause of the previous agreement.
· Protection against changes to work practices, the organisation of work or organisational structures being imposed without union agreement.
These matters require meaningful negotiation and concrete outcomes. Commitments already made must be honoured, and staff must have a collective voice in decisions affecting their working lives.
IFUT is pursuing these objectives alongside fellow public service unions. Yesterday’s action demonstrated our members’ resolve to play their part in that shared campaign.
Thank you to our members and branches
Taking industrial action is a serious decision. IFUT recognises the commitment involved and the financial sacrifice members make when withdrawing their labour.
Yesterday’s successful stoppage reflected the solidarity on which our union is built. Through their participation in the withdrawal of labour, local gatherings and teach-ins, members strengthened the position of their colleagues and sent a clear message that the dispute must be addressed.
Head Office extends its thanks and solidarity to members across all participating institutions, and to the students and other colleagues who attended local activities in support.
We encourage branches to share photographs and reports of their action so that we can recognise this collective effort and keep members informed as the campaign develops.
Next steps: full withdrawal of labour on 14 and 21 October
The next scheduled actions are:
· Wednesday, 14 October 2026: a 24-hour strike and full withdrawal of labour.
· Wednesday, 21 October 2026: a further 24-hour strike and full withdrawal of labour if the dispute remains unresolved.
Members covered by the action should prepare to participate and remain in close contact with their branches. Branches will communicate local arrangements, including picket locations, rosters and other activity. Please continue to monitor IFUT’s national updates and follow the instructions issued by the union.
The discussions held yesterday provided a useful foundation for this preparation. We encourage members to build on that engagement, speak with colleagues and ensure that everyone understands the arrangements for the next phase.
Any particular difficulty concerning participation should be raised promptly with your branch or Head Office so that it can be considered through the appropriate process.
The Government must now engage
IFUT’s objective is to secure a negotiated resolution that delivers for members. Yesterday’s action was the first step in a campaign backed by a clear democratic mandate.
The Government must now engage meaningfully with public service unions, put forward credible pay proposals and address the outstanding commitments at the heart of this dispute.
Thank you to everyone who stood together yesterday, helped organise local activities or joined the discussions. Let us carry that solidarity and determination into the next phase of our campaign.
Stay informed. Stay in contact with your branch. Stand together.