The Mandate trade union has criticised a planned 3% pay increase for staff at Dunnes Stores, claiming it is not high enough.
The union said it fails to keep pace with inflation, falls below trade union pay guidance, and does not address wider issues facing workers at the retailer.
The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) today issued guidance recommending that unions in the private sector seek pay increases of between 4.7% and 6%, where sustainable, for 2026.
“A 3% pay increase is simply not good enough,” said Eoin Coates, Divisional Organiser with Mandate Trade Union.
“It does not reflect the reality facing Dunnes workers.”
“Inflation continues to erode wages, and this increase falls well below ICTU’s recommended pay range for the private sector. In real terms, many workers will be left worse off,” he added.
Mandate also said that the pay increase addresses only one element of a Pay & Benefits Claim that was overwhelmingly endorsed by Dunnes workers.
The union said key aspects of that claim remain unaddressed, including improved sick pay, paid maternity and paternity leave, and retention of the staff discount upon retirement.
Dunnes Stores has been contacted for comment.
