Thousands of school secretaries and caretakers across Ireland have launched indefinite strike action, demanding access to public sector pensions and improved entitlements. The move, organised by the Fórsa trade union, is expected to disrupt operations in around 2,000 schools nationwide.
The strike began after three hours of exploratory talks between union representatives and the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) ended without progress. The WRC said no clear basis for negotiations had been established but pledged to remain engaged with both sides in the coming days.
“We went to the WRC in good faith, but yet again our members have been left with no clarity or pathway to a fair pension,” said Fórsa’s Head of Education, Andy Pike. “Our members are beginning this strike today because, despite decades of service, thousands of school secretaries and caretakers still face the prospect of retiring with no pension.”
More than 2,600 workers are taking part in the action. Fórsa said the strike highlights long-standing inequities, with many staff employed for years without the security of a public service pension. The union has described the situation as “deeply unfair,” given the central role secretaries and caretakers play in school communities.
As part of the industrial action, Fórsa staged a rally outside the Department of Public Expenditure. Meanwhile, the Department of Education has instructed schools to remain open, though it acknowledged that disruptions are likely.
Some schools have already issued notices to parents warning of difficulties in administrative areas such as office access, phone services, and email replies. Other school staff have been urged by unions not to carry out the duties of striking workers.
A spokesperson for the Department of Education and Youth acknowledged the contribution of school secretaries and caretakers, noting that progress has been made in recent years on improving terms and conditions. “This has included secretaries being placed on the payroll of the department and linked to any increases in pay under public sector agreements, improved annual leave entitlements, improved maternity provisions, and paid sick leave in excess of the statutory requirement,” the spokesperson said.
The department confirmed it would continue engaging with the WRC and Fórsa in search of a resolution. It also said contingency measures were being developed to limit the impact on schools, with an emphasis on ensuring that teaching and learning continue uninterrupted.
“During this action, all schools are expected to open for all students,” the department’s spokesperson added.
The strike marks the latest escalation in a dispute that has stretched on for years. For Fórsa, securing pension rights remains a central demand — and for thousands of workers, the indefinite action reflects growing frustration over the absence of long-term security after decades of service.
