Union Rights at Dunnes Stores

  1. Trade Union Membership is Your Right
  2. What You’re Entitled To
  3. Dunnes and Trade Union Recognition
  4. Common Issues to Watch For
  5. Mandate is Here to Support You
  6. Need Union support at work?

Trade Union Membership is Your Right

Under Irish law, all workers have the right to join a union and participate in trade union activity. Dunnes Stores workers have a long history of organising through Mandate Trade Union to improve pay, hours, and working conditions.

You cannot be penalised, discriminated against, or treated unfairly for being a union member or representative.

What You’re Entitled To

  • Representation in meetings – You’re entitled to be represented by your Shop Steward or a colleague in any disciplinary or grievance procedure

  • Protection from victimisation – It’s illegal for your employer to penalise you for union membership or activity

  • Right to union information – You have the right to access union updates and communications

  • Have your say – You can give feedback on the operation and policies of the company through your union

Dunnes and Trade Union Recognition

As a member of Mandate and a Dunnes worker, you have a right to:

  • Be in a union
  • Be represented
  • Raise issues individually or collectively

This is fully protected under Irish and European law.

If you are refused to be accompanied in meetings or experience unfair treatment due to your union membership — contact Mandate immediately.

Common Issues to Watch For

  • Unfair treatment or subtle discrimination linked to union involvement
  • Being refused representation in meetings
  • Being discouraged from joining or speaking to the union
  • Pressure from management to avoid Mandate
  • Shop Stewards being blocked from supporting members

Mandate is Here to Support You

  • Mandate is committed to ensuring all Dunnes members:
  • Are empowered to challenge unfair treatment
  • Are treated fairly and protected from anti-union behaviour
  • Understand their rights to join, organise, and be represented
  • Are supported in organising collectively for better pay, hours, and to protect their rights

Need Union support at work?

Talk to your Shop Steward, contact your local Mandate office, or visit our Contact Page.