Everything that will be closed today for public sector strikes

It is the largest national strike in nearly 20 years.

The dispute centres on pay increases that unions say have failed to keep pace with inflation. They estimate the shortfall at between five and seven per cent and want a settlement that addresses the gap. 

It is the largest national strike in nearly 20 years.

Set to bring national disruption to schools, hospitals and public services, here is everything that will be closed today for public sector strikes.

Healthcare

One of the worst affected areas by the strikes, over 32,000 nurses are partaking as well as doctors, consultants and other staff across 30 hospitals.

Among the cancelled and affected appointments include non-urgent, outpatient clinics and elective procedures.

If you have a hospital appointment today, contact the hospital to ensure it is going ahead.

Essential staff kept on at levels nearly equalling overnight rosters to facilitate emergency and life-supporting care.

Education

The majority of schools across Ireland will be closed today with approximately 90,000 teachers from the INTO, ASTI and TUI taking part in the strike.

As primary, secondary and third-level education are all affected, parents should plan for school closures and make the necessary childcare arrangements.

Driving Tests

As the RSA is partaking in the action, all scheduled driving tests have been called off for today.

Courts

Similarly, almost all court sittings have been cancelled today, while the Dáil is also out of action.

Due to council services facing significant disruption, heritage sites and parks run by the Office of Public Works are closed for the day, as well as many local libraries and public offices.

So, what is open as usual?

All public transport is operating as usual including buses, trains, DART's and the Luas.

While they are public sector workers, Gardaí and the Defence Forces are at work as legally, they are barred from partaking in strikes.

As stated above, emergency services and life-saving hospital are maintained as normal.

Featured image: Rolling News