We hear from the ASTI on strike action next week
Summary
Linda Kelly, General Secretary of the ASTI, defends upcoming public sector strike action as a necessary response to a government pay offer of 6.75% over three years, which she argues fails to address inflation and cost-of-living pressures. While acknowledging the disruption caused by the strike, Kelly maintains that the government must move first to provide a credible deal, noting that union members feel disregarded and are determined to take further action if negotiations do not yield fair results.
Topics discussed
Introduction and question on strike necessity
Linda Kelly rejects 'performative' narrative
Context of suspended talks and government offer
Debate on negotiation vs. industrial action
Details of the 6.75% pay offer
Union demands regarding inflation and cost of living
Why specific numbers are not disclosed publicly
Impact on public servants and sense of disregard
Commitment to second strike day if needed
Procedural reasons for keeping demands private
Possibility of averting the strike on the 12th
Timing of strike relative to EU presidency
Logistical factors behind choosing Thursday the 12th
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