Public Sector workers across Sligo took to the picket lines yesterday (October 14) as part of a nationwide strike after the government failed to negotiate a new public sector deal after the expiry of the last public sector pay deal in June this year.
SIPTU and Forsá trade union members voted in favour of industrial action, with an estimated 300,000 people across Ireland having taken part.
The public sector strike affected most schools and colleges, nearly all courts, all driving tests, many council libraries, OPW heritage sites and reduced services from ambulances and government departments.
If further negotiations don’t take place and a deal is not sealed, a further nationwide public sector strike will commence next Wednesday, October 21.
Additionally, as part of the industrial action, some public sector workers are engaging in a work-to-rule in which they will not go beyond their contracted hours and work responsibilities.
Around Sligo Town, Sligo University Hospital, ATU Sligo, Markievicz House, the Courthouse, County Hall and the Social Welfare Building were among the sites where strikers were out in force, alongside many primary and secondary schools.
In an official press release, the HSE said it expected widespread disruption to many health and social care services due to the strike, and as part of contingency plans, cancelled all elective, day services and outpatient healthcare services across hospitals and community settings.
The HSE recognised the disruption this would cause for patients and their families, and thanked the public for their patience and understanding.
For full reactions and comments from public sector workers and union representatives on the picket line in Sligo, read the Sligo Weekender out tomorrow, October 15, in stores and online.
 as part of a nationwide strike after the government failed to negotiate a new public sector deal after the expiry of the last public sector pay deal in June this year.){kind=link}