Circular 21.2026 – Update for Members and Reminder to Vote

Dear Branch Secretary,

The AHCPS, along with other affiliates, attended the Irish Congress of Trade Unions Public Services Committee (PSC) meeting on Friday, 11 September. We would like to provide members with a brief update on the current position.

• There have been no formal or informal discussions on public service pay since discussions broke down on 3 July. Despite commentary in the media, Government has not engaged since the PSC informed it that affiliates would be consulting their members.

• The PSC is asking that Government put its pay offer upfront before the other issues on both sides are discussed. This differs from previous public service agreements, where pay was generally dealt with later in negotiations. Given current cost-of-living and inflation pressures, the PSC believes it is important to establish whether there is a sufficient basis for negotiation.

• The PSC is seeking a pay increase in 2026 to address cost-of-living pressures. NERI has advised the PSC that inflation is currently on target to reach 3.35% in 2026, which would erode the value of the pay increases received in February and June. A firm commitment from Government on a 2026 pay increase has not been forthcoming.

• The Government is referencing pay increases from 2019 in its talking points. This needs to be viewed in the context of the three significant reductions previously imposed on AHCPS members: the Pension-Related Deduction (“pension levy”) in 2009; the public service pay cut in 2010; and the further Haddington Road/FEMPI pay cut in 2013 for those earning over €65,000. Subsequent pay restoration must be viewed in the context of the unwinding of these earlier cuts.

• The PSC is requesting affiliates which secure a mandate for industrial action to commence co-ordinated action short of strike/work to rule from 30 September. There would be no exemption for EU Presidency-related work.

• If Government does not engage proactively, the next stage would be full work stoppage. The first proposed 24-hour public service strike would take place on Wednesday, 14 October, with the possibility of a further full-day strike on Wednesday, 21 October, if necessary.

Work-to-Rule Examples

• Finishing work at the end of scheduled hours and not staying late to clear urgent work.
• Taking all entitled breaks and lunch periods in full.
• Refusing to undertake duties outside the member’s grade or formal role.
• Following procedures, approval processes and rules strictly, rather than taking pragmatic shortcuts.
• Not answering emails or phone calls outside working hours.
• Not participating in voluntary working groups, committees or projects beyond core duties.
• Not providing informal cover for vacant posts or absent colleagues beyond what is contractually required.
• Limiting travel, training or additional assignments to what is mandated.

Ballot for Industrial Action – Reminder

I refer to Circulars 19/2026 and 20/2026 in relation to the AHCPS ballot for industrial action.

Voting closes at 12 noon on Tuesday, 22 September 2026.

Please ensure that this circular is circulated to all members in your branch.

This circular will be placed on the Association’s website.

Yours sincerely

Ciaran Rohan
General Secretary