As more than 300,000 public sector workers are set to strike for a second time on 12 November, the Communist Party of Ireland (CPI) has declared its support for public sector workers seeking a fair pay settlement, urging trade unions to maintain pressure on the government and warning against agreements that would undermine working conditions or public services.
CP of Ireland backs public-sector workers ahead of strike
In a statement issued on 2 November 2026 by its Industrial Committee, the party supported further industrial action if democratically approved by union members.
The statement noted that public-sector workers had already demonstrated their determination through collective industrial action, but had subsequently suspended further action to allow negotiations to proceed. The CPI argued that the government had failed to respond with a satisfactory offer.
To illustrate the government's priorities, the party pointed to figures from Ireland's Central Statistics Office (CSO). Non-financial corporations operating in Ireland recorded a gross operating surplus of €83.7 billion in the second quarter of 2026 alone, while the government had allocated €1.2 billion for public-sector pay in Budget 2027, including outstanding commitments.
The CPI argued that this contrast reflected a political choice to accommodate corporate wealth while treating public-sector pay as a cost to be restrained. It described wage restraint as a question of class priorities, rather than simply a matter of public finances.
Pay increases must not come at the expense of public services
The party also warned trade unions against accepting headline pay increases in exchange for measures that could worsen workers' conditions. It specifically cautioned against productivity measures that intensify work, as well as agreements that facilitate further commercialisation and outsourcing or contribute to the deterioration of public services.
The CPI stressed that the outcome of the dispute would affect the wider working class, not only public-sector employees. It called on workers to draw strength from the organisation, unity and collective discipline demonstrated by public-sector unions.
The Industrial Committee expressed support for further industrial action where this is democratically decided by union members. It also called on workers, trade unions and progressive organisations to participate in solidarity demonstrations and marches organised in support of further action by public-sector workers.