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Running to stand still? Two decades of trade union activity in the Irish long-term care sector

Author

Listed:
  • Caroline Murphy

    (8808University of Limerick, Ireland)

  • Michelle O’Sullivan

    (8808University of Limerick, Ireland)

Abstract

This article examines the ongoing efforts of trade unions in Ireland to protect and improve the working conditions of personal care workers amid employment and social policy regimes associated with a liberal welfare state. Comparatively low public expenditure on care and the increasing marketisation of care services have undermined the provision of decent work. This article assesses two major union campaigns related to personal care workers over two decades, and reviews the key priorities that have emerged for unions during the COVID-19 pandemic. We consider whether the outcomes of these campaigns have been converted into enhanced rewards for workers and discuss the continuing challenges for union campaigning.

Suggested Citation

  • Caroline Murphy & Michelle O’Sullivan, 2021. "Running to stand still? Two decades of trade union activity in the Irish long-term care sector," Transfer: European Review of Labour and Research, , vol. 27(3), pages 383-397, August.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:treure:v:27:y:2021:i:3:p:383-397
    DOI: 10.1177/10242589211028461
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Caroline Murphy & Thomas Turner, 2014. "Organising non-standard workers: union recruitment in the Irish care sector," Industrial Relations Journal, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 45(5), pages 373-388, September.
    2. Walsh, Brendan & Redmond, Paul & Roantree, Barra, 2020. "Differences in risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19 across occupations in Ireland," Research Series, Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI), number SUSTAT93, June.
    3. Shahra RAZAVI & Silke STAAB, 2010. "Underpaid and overworked: A cross-national perspective on care workers," International Labour Review, International Labour Organization, vol. 149(4), pages 407-422, December.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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