Dáil Motion to Strengthen Workers’ Rights

sinn Féin TD for Wexford, Johnny Mythen, has announced that his party will bring forward a Dáil motion this week aimed at strengthening workers’ rights and addressing the ongoing cost-of-living crisis.

The motion, which will be debated on Tuesday, is introduced in collaboration with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU). It is part of Sinn Féin's broader campaign to support workers and enhance collective bargaining rights across Ireland.

The motion is particularly timely, coinciding with Trade Union Week (April 27 – May 1), with trade union representatives present in the Dáil’s public gallery for the debate. Additionally, Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on Enterprise and Employment, Rose Conway-Walsh TD, will host ICTU representatives in the AV Room at Leinster House to discuss their Quality Employment and Good Jobs policy proposals.

Johnny Mythen TD highlighted that workers in Ireland are under increasing pressure, struggling with rising living costs that erode wages. Despite strong economic performance and surpluses, many workers feel undervalued and underpaid.

“Workers have never worked so hard and struggled so much,” said Mythen. “At a time when the economy is performing strongly, workers are not seeing the benefits. Many feel undervalued and underpaid, and they are right to demand change.”

Sinn Féin’s motion calls on Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael, and the Regional Independents to take immediate action to support workers. Key demands include:

• Legislating for a right to collective bargaining through trade unions
• Guaranteeing trade union access to workplaces
• Implementing a living wage without delay, reversing the deferral to 2029
• Expanding flexible and remote working rights

Mythen emphasized that these proposals reflect growing frustration among workers, with many feeling they are not fairly compensated for their efforts. He also pointed to the issue of job insecurity, noting that one in four jobs in Ireland are low-paid or precarious.

“We cannot afford to wait three years for the introduction of the national living wage, especially while the cost-of-living crisis worsens. Action is needed now,” Mythen added.

Sinn Féin is committed to working with trade unions and other progressive voices to push for meaningful change, ensuring workers have fair pay, secure jobs, and a stronger voice in the workplace. The motion presents an opportunity to make significant strides toward building a fairer, more balanced economy for all.

Mythen concluded by urging all parties in the Dáil to support the motion and take decisive action to improve conditions for workers and their families.