Ballot in favour of industrial action

IT staff in Cork City Council represented by FÓRSA Trade Union have balloted in favour of potential industrial action, which it is understood will be outlined in the new year.

The ballot, which was conducted nationwide among information, communication and technology staff (ICT) saw a turnout of 86% of union members, and a 98.4% vote in favour.

Cork staff say they are frustrated by what they call years of inaction on the part of city council in regard to recognising professional status, pay, and responsibilities.

An example given by FÓRSA is the necessity for third-level qualifications for ICT staff, which it said had not been recognised in pay scales.

Head of FÓRSA’s Local Government division Richy Carrothers said that the aim of the ballot is to “secure fair recognition, improved career pathways, and a consistent national approach to out-of-hours work for ICT professionals in the local authority sector”.

The ballot focused on a sector-wide review of ICT grading and pay, the establishment of a National ICT Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Committee, and a nationally agreed framework for out-of-hours work.