Public sector unions back strike in pay dispute

Public sector unions in Ireland have voted overwhelmingly in favour of industrial action, including potential full-scale strikes, in a escalating dispute over pay and working conditions. The votes by the country's two largest public service unions, SIPTU and Fórsa, represent a significant mandate from tens of thousands of workers and increase the likelihood of widespread disruption to essential services. SIPTU announced on Monday, August 31, that its members voted 97% in favour of strike action and 98% for industrial action. On Tuesday, September 1, Fórsa confirmed its members backed industrial action up to and including strikes by 96%, with a 72% turnout.