Tipperary fire fighters begin two days of strike action

Retained firefighters in Tipperary and Waterford, who are members of the Unite trade union, have begun two days of strike action this morning (Thursday).

The strike is an escalation in the industrial dispute between the retained firefighters and local authorities over the fire fighters' claim for better pay and conditions.

Ahead of the strike action, Unite General Secretary Sharon Graham expressed her support for the firefighters saying: "Retained firefighters perform a vital role for the whole community and face considerable risks in the performance of their duties.