Progress made on restoration of twilight payment for public sector workers

SIPTU representatives have today (Thursday, 21st June) confirmed that a productive engagement took place between with union representatives, management of the Health Service Executive (HSE) and Department of Health officials to progress the restoration of twilight payments for public sector workers.

The payment — which saw workers paid at ‘time and one-sixth’ for working between six and eight o’clock in the evening — was unilaterally slashed during the crisis years.

SIPTU Health Division Organiser, Paul Bell, said: “Simply put, our members who experienced the withdrawal of this payment under the draconian FEMPI legislation are seeking its immediate restoration under the terms of the Public Service Stability Agreement (PSSA).

“To rectify this injustice, management must find €14 million to cover the cost of restoring our members pay. The money will have a significant impact on the pockets of the lowest paid people in our public service. In real terms, the restoration of this allowance can amount up to €1,000 a year for people on the frontline.”

He added: “It is intolerable that this payment has been restored for some, and not for others. SIPTU representatives tabled this issue at last years’ pay talks, which led to the current PSSA. The PSSA, which was overwhelmingly backed by SIPTU members in good faith, included a commitment to a process to deal with the union’s claim.”

The next meeting between union representatives, management of the Health Service Executive (HSE) and Department of Health officials will take place next Wednesday (27th June) in Hawkins House.