Westmeath public services face strike action over pay dispute

Public sector workers across Westmeath are preparing for possible industrial action on Thursday, November 12, as trade unions step up their dispute with the Government over a new pay deal.

The planned 24-hour strike follows unsuccessful negotiations on Friday night, with talks on a new public sector pay agreement adjourned without a deal.

The Public Services Committee of the Irish Congress of Trade Unions met on Monday and said the Government had yet to make a credible offer to resolve the dispute.

Union leaders have confirmed they are now preparing for strike action, which could affect public services in Westmeath and across the country.

Lead union negotiator Kevin Callinan said there had been considerable anger at Monday's meeting, which had quickly turned into “quiet determination”.

The industrial action will include a major demonstration in Dublin, alongside smaller rallies around the country.

The proposed strike will coincide with the first of two meetings of European leaders in Dublin next week as part of Ireland's EU Presidency.