As Ireland prepares for its next government, trade unions are advocating for enhanced workers’ rights and fair pay in the wake of rising wages and several significant strikes. Health sectors face potential disputes over staffing shortages, while various political parties, including Fine Gael, Fianna Fáil, Sinn Féin, and the Labour Party, outline their commitments to collective bargaining and minimum wage improvements in their manifestos. Concerns over implementation of EU directives on worker rights also loom large, as unions warn of possible unrest if demands aren’t met.