Trade unionists in Dunnes Stores have promised to escalate their campaign for decent working conditions following management’s targeting for retribution workers who took part in a nationwide one-day strike.
The strike by over 5,000 Mandate members on Thursday (2nd April), was widely supported by the public and other trade unions. Workers decided to take strike action following Dunnes Stores refusal to negotiation with their union concerning working conditions.
In response Dunnes Stores has taken retribution against workers who supported the strike. Mandate members have reported being dismissed, having their hours cut, changes to shift patterns and being moved to sections they have never worked in before.
SIPTU Organiser, Derek Casserly, said: “SIPTU will be holding a series of general meetings with its members in Dunnes Stores in the coming weeks to appraise them of current and future developments regarding the dispute. We are currently awaiting a Labour Court recommendation on the matter.
“We also condemn, wholeheartedly, the tactics employed by Dunnes Stores management in the treatment of our sisters and brothers in Mandate following their legitimate one day stoppage. It has achieved nothing only to strengthen the resolve of the staff in Dunnes and is further proof of the Dickensian manner in which staff are treated.”
SIPTU represents approximately 300 Dunnes Stores workers.