The Unionise Podcast

Connolly’s Vision. Our Work Continues.

One hundred and ten years ago, on the 12th of May 1916, James Connolly, trade union organiser, socialist thinker, and revolutionary leader was executed, silencing one of the most powerful voices the Irish labour movement has ever known. But his ideas? They never died. Today, as Ireland grapples with rising inequality, a punishing cost-of-living crisis, and growing frustration among working people, Connolly's legacy feels anything but distant. In this sixth and final episode of season three of the Unionise Podcast, SIPTU General Secretary John King draws a direct line from Connolly's struggle to the battles being fought by workers today and has a stark warning for Government: engage seriously with workers' living standards, or face significant industrial unrest. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

The Woman Worker: Your Rights, Your Voice.

From the boardroom to the shop floor, women in Ireland's workforce face a unique set of challenges and knowing your rights can make all the difference. In this episode of the Unionise podcast, recorded for Trade Union Week, SIPTU Health Communications Officer, Niamh Cavanagh sits down with Claire O'Connor, Advocate at SIPTU's Workers' Rights Centre and take us through the evolving landscape of employment law as it affects women in Ireland today. Claire explores some of the most significant recent developments including the new Domestic Violence Leave entitlement, updated breastfeeding regulations, and the protections available to working mothers under the Maternity Protection Acts.  She also shines a light on the gaps that still exist the absence of statutory menopause or menstrual leave, the ongoing burden of unpaid caring responsibilities, and the very real impact these gaps have on women in low-paid sectors. Whether you're navigating pregnancy in the workplace, returning from maternity leave, or simply trying to understand what you're entitled to this episode is for you. Because when women know their rights, and when they stand together in a Union real change becomes possible. Remember, know your rights. Join your union and Happy May Day. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Public Service Priorities. Job protection. Real pay progression.

Last month, SIPTU Health Division held 2026 AGMs across our six sectors, which are representative of 42,000 SIPTU members in health.  In this episode we catch up with SIPTU Health Divisional Organiser, Kevin Figgis to discuss members priorities ahead of any potential public service pay talks and why a strong successor to the current Public Service Agreement means delivering real pay progression. Throughout the episode, we shine a light on the challenges facing workers in the wider public service. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

On the Frontline of Truth and Democracy

In an era defined by digital misinformation, a functioning democracy relies on more than just "content" it requires a trusted space for reasoned, fact-based debate. SIPTU is leading the charge to protect Public Service Broadcasting as a vital national pillar. In this episode of Unionise, SIPTU’s Adrian Kane and Dr Eileen Culloty join us to discuss why the future of RTÉ cannot be built on a foundation of downsizing and outsourcing. The fight for our national broadcaster is a fight for the quality of our public discourse. Join us as we articulate an alternative vision for a media landscape that serves the people, not the bottom line. ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

Solidarity is our strength, equality is our demand

In the second episode of our new Unionise season we mark International Women’s Day with a show dedicated to the courage, resilience, and unwavering spirit of women in the labour and trade union movement. The episode features contributions SIPTU Deputy General Secretary, Ethel Buckley, Honorary Vice President Annette Donlon, Head of SIPTU Legal Dept. Rachael Ryan, Head of SIPTU College Eira Gallagher, SIPTU Sector Organiser, Diane Jackson and Labour Party Spokesperson for Health, Marie Sherlock. The episode opens with moment of profound reflection with the hauntingly beautiful rendition of Palestinian Mother, performed by MUI President Niamh Parsons.  ---------------------------------------- Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.