Today with David McCullagh Today with David McCullagh

We talk to some of the lesser-known services on the picket line tomorrow

Oct 13, 2026 · 7m

Summary

Hundreds of thousands of public service workers in Ireland are set to strike over pay delays, causing widespread disruption to schools, courts, and medical services. The episode features Dr. Bridget Harrington-Barry, President of the Irish Dental Association, who explains the first-ever industrial action by HSE dentists. She highlights deep frustration over unilateral restructuring proposals that have sidelined dental services and reduced staffing by over 23%.

Topics discussed

Overview of upcoming public sector strike and service disruptions Irish Dental Association joins strike for first time Public reactions to the strike in Limerick Introduction of Dr. Bridget Harrington-Barry Reasons for dental industrial action and member support Concerns over unilateral HSE restructuring proposals Impact of restructuring on dental service control and staffing Future actions if pay dispute is resolved Decline in HSE-employed dentists due to restructuring Services continuing during the strike and exceptions Impact on school children's dental screening and long-term costs
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