Progress towards talks and suspension of strike in Mayo education dispute

Fórsa has suspended strike action by school secretaries and caretakers, opening the door to meaningful discussions at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC).

Mayo Minister Alan Dillon welcome progress and said this is a vital opportunity to secure long-term certainty for staff who play a critical role in every school.

He stated: “This week I’ve met and engaged directly with school secretaries, caretakers, and management right across Mayo.

"They are the people who keep our schools running smoothly day after day, and they deserve clarity, fairness, and recognition for their work. The last week has highlighted just how central they are to the daily life of every school community.”

Minister Dillon stressed that all parties now need to approach negotiations with urgency and determination.

“We cannot allow uncertainty to drag on. There must be a clear pathway forward that respects the contribution of these staff and restores stability to schools. Parents, teachers, and students need confidence that this issue will be resolved swiftly and fairly.”

He acknowledged Minister for Education Helen McEntee’s efforts in moving the talks forward, while calling for strong commitment from all sides:

“I welcome Minister McEntee’s determination and the WRC’s role as trusted facilitators. Now it’s time for action.

"We need a solution that ensures our school secretaries and caretakers get the recognition they have long deserved, and that schools can focus fully on education without further disruption.”