IN PICTURES: Offaly Workers on Strike

Public sector workers across County Offaly took to picket lines on Wednesday, 14 October, as part of nationwide industrial action over pay and working conditions.

Workers from a range of public services, including education, healthcare and local government, participated in the 24-hour stoppage, with schools and other public services across the county affected.

The industrial action follows growing frustration among trade unions over the lack of progress in negotiations for a new public sector pay agreement. Unions have called for meaningful pay increases to address the rising cost of living, while the Government has emphasised the importance of reaching an affordable and sustainable agreement.

Picket lines were established at workplaces across Offaly, with workers joining colleagues throughout the country in one of the largest public sector strikes in recent years.

Among those taking part were Waterways Ireland staff based at Harbour Street in Tullamore. SIPTU President Alan Lindley expressed his appreciation to the Offaly Traveller Unit, who provided tea, coffee and biscuits to workers during the industrial action.

Mr Lindley thanked the group for their support and also supplied photographs capturing those taking part in the stoppage.

Further strike action is scheduled for Wednesday, 21 October, unless progress is made in negotiations between the Government and trade unions.