The Hard Shoulder The Hard Shoulder

Strike roundup - what has been happening recently?

Oct 8, 2026 · 6m

Summary

This episode covers ongoing industrial action by Irish public sector workers, focusing on a lunchtime protest by nurses at nine hospitals. Health correspondent Niamh Griffin discusses key grievances, including severe staffing vacancies and a pay deal that expired in June. The segment contrasts the government’s claim of significant recruitment growth with unions’ arguments that current wages fail to match inflation and patient demand. Hosts Keira Kelly and Shane Coleman analyze the standoff, noting that unions have set preconditions for talks, including a larger financial commitment than the…

Topics discussed

Show introduction Nurses' lunchtime protest and upcoming strikes Staffing vacancies and work-to-rule actions HSE recruitment figures and graduate nurse agreements Union arguments on demand vs. recruitment numbers Impact of ending goodwill overtime on services Pay deal expiration and budget provisions Inflation disputes and preconditions for talks Analysis of union strategy and government response Closing remarks and listener contact details
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