Dunnes Member Update: Pay & Benefits Claim 2024

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3–4 minutes

Dear Dunnes Members,

We are pleased to share an important update regarding the 2024 Pay & Benefits Claim for our members in Dunnes Stores. Following the National Meeting of Dunnes activists held on 5th November 2024, where the claim was finalised and endorsed by the attending activists, it has now been formally sent to Dunnes Stores management. This claim reflects the priorities identified by you, our members, in the recent survey and addresses critical issues related to fair pay, benefits, and working conditions.

Your union has worked diligently to ensure that this claim aligns with your needs and expectations. The issues raised in the claim aim to promote a fairer, more supportive workplace where all Dunnes workers are valued and respected. From securing a pay increase and advancing annual leave entitlements to recognising union rights and fostering a respectful work environment, this comprehensive claim is a direct response to the voices of Dunnes workers nationwide.

Below, you will find the full letter sent to Dunnes Head Office, outlining each of the points in our 2024 claim. We will keep you informed of any developments and continue to advocate for these essential improvements on your behalf.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

In solidarity,
Gerard Halligan
Mandate Organiser

Human Resources Department
Dunnes Stores
46-50 South Great Georges Street
Dublin 2

JF/LF

7 November 2024

RE:  Pay and Benefits Claim 2024

To Whom It May Concern,

II am writing on behalf of our members in Dunnes Stores following a National Meeting of Dunnes activists held on 5th November 2024, where they endorsed this year’s Pay & Benefits Claim and instructed their union, Mandate, to formally present this claim to you as their employer. This claim reflects the priorities of Dunnes workers who participated in the recent survey and addresses pressing issues related to their pay, benefits, and working conditions.

Our members have strongly advocated for a fairer and more supportive approach to compensation and benefits, recognising the economic challenges faced by your employees and the need for progressive policies that support long-term staff retention and workplace satisfaction. At the national meeting, our Dunnes activists made the decision to pursue the following Pay & Benefits Claim for 2024:

  1. Fair Pay Increase: A €1.50 per hour increase across all points of the Dunnes pay scale.
  2. Union Recognition: Guarantee workers the right to have their voices heard through their chosen union.
  3. Pay Equality: Ensure all Dunnes workers reach the top pay scale after 10 years of service.
  4. Annual Leave: Increase annual leave entitlements based on years of service, with the option to take these additional days individually.
  5. Hours Allocation: Provide access to full-time contracts and ensure the fair distribution of additional hours among existing staff.
  6. Work-Life Balance: Full pay for Maternity and Paternity Leave, implement more flexible shift patterns with rosters posted four weeks in advance.
  7. Sick Leave: Extend sick leave entitlements based on years of service, with immediate access to the scheme from day one of employment.
  8. Discount Card: Allow long-serving staff to retain their discount card upon retirement, as a mark of appreciation for their service.
  9. Respect and Dignity: Foster a respectful work environment with improved communication and fair treatment from management.

Our members firmly believe that Dunnes Stores, as a prominent and responsible employer, has a duty to adopt a progressive approach to pay and benefits, similar to that of other leading retailers. Competing companies in the sector have recognised the importance of supporting their employees through meaningful improvements in pay and benefits, leading to better staff engagement, retention, and overall job satisfaction.

Our members are seeking similar commitments from Dunnes Stores. They expect meaningful progress on these essential issues, which will not only improve their financial security but also enhance the overall quality of their working lives.

We urge Dunnes Stores to give these matters the urgent attention they deserve. We look forward to your prompt response and, as always, we are available to meet with company representatives to discuss this claim in detail.

Yours sincerely
For Mandate Trade Union
Jim Fuery
Interim Assistant General Secretary
On behalf of the Dunnes National Committee