Cathy, Dunnes Co. Louth
“As a member of Mandate Trade Union, I have access to a wealth of information on my rights and entitlements. This has been invaluable to me, particularly when it comes to understanding employment law and my rights as a worker. I feel that the union has my back and that I’m not alone in dealing with workplace issues. Every worker should join our union because it gives us the power to stand up for our rights and make a difference.”
Patrick, Dunnes Co. Mayo
“I wanted to be part of a larger community of workers who were fighting for better wages and working conditions. Being a Mandate member has given me the opportunity to meet other Dunnes workers and allowed us to work together to achieve common goals. I believe that unions are vital for workers’ rights, and everyone should have the opportunity to be part of one.”
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Why Join Mandate Trade Union?
By becoming a member of Mandate, workers have the opportunity to have their voices heard, and to collectively work towards a more equitable and just workplace. With membership at just €4 per week, joining online is easy and straightforward. Together we are stronger!
Collective Strength
Mandate fights for better wages, benefits, and working conditions for retail workers as they have the backing of a larger group of employees.
Professional Representation
Members have access to professional representation from our union officials who can provide assistance when needed and representation in 3rd party cases such as unfair dismissal or discrimination etc.
Employment Rights Advice
Members have access to employment rights advice, which can help them navigate employment law and understand their rights as workers.
Advocacy
Mandate campaigns and advocates for workers’ rights on a national platform, ensuring that their voices are heard, and their needs are met.
Dunnes Workers’ Survey 2025 – Key Findings & What’s Next?
Over 1,000 Dunnes workers across the country took part in this year’s Dunnes Workers’ Survey.
This strong level of engagement shows a growing awareness, deep frustration in stores, and—most importantly—a real hunger for change.
Staffing Cuts,
Unfair Hours & Rota Issues
One of the clearest messages from this year’s survey is that staffing levels are getting worse, not better.
Stores are consistently understaffed, especially at busy times.
Staff are being asked to do more, with less support.
Distribution of hours continues to be unfair and inconsistent.
Long-serving staff reported having their hours cut—only to see new hires brought in shortly after.
Management Behaviour & Morale
Hundreds of workers raised serious concerns about how they are treated by management:
Many said this has damaged morale and created a culture of fear and frustration.
Reports of being disrespected, ignored, or dismissed when raising issues.
Long-Serving Staff Feel Forgotten
This year’s survey highlighted a growing anger among long-serving staff.
Workers with 10, 15, even 20+ years of service said they feel overlooked.
Many receive fewer hours, worse shifts, and no recognition of their loyalty.
There is strong support for additional annual leave based on length of service and for retaining the staff discount card in retirement.
Pay & Benefits Claim
Mandate Trade Union has officially submitted the 2025 Pay & Benefits Claim to Dunnes Stores Head Office. Here’s what members are looking for:
1. A 10% Pay Increase for All Staff
2. Improved Sick Pay – 8 weeks Fully Paid
3. Retention of the Staff Discount upon Retirement
4. Introduction of Paid Maternity and Paternity Leave
What are Banded Hours & How to Apply?
All workers who are not covered by a collective agreement governing “Banded Hours”, which includes Dunnes workers, are entitled to lodge a claim for secure hours if they have more than 12 months of service.
Banded Hours Legislation provides greater security over your working hours and income by ensuring that your hours cannot be reduced below the minimum in your designated band.
Decency for Dunnes Workers 