The Irish Congress of Trade Unions has today elected Phil Ní Sheaghdha as its new President. The announcement was made at Congress’s Biennial Delegate Conference, currently taking place in Belfast.
Ms Ní Sheaghdha is currently the General Secretary of the Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) and has served as a Vice-President of Congress for the last three years. She replaces outgoing President Justin McCamphill, who has been in the role since 2022.
Speaking after the announcement, Phil Ní Sheaghdha said:
“At a time of grave global uncertainty, Irish workers will need their trade unions now more than ever. I am a firm believer that all workers should have a right to be represented by trade unions in progressing fair and realistic terms and conditions, including the tight to withdraw their labour in progressing their issues. As a trade union movement, we need to be clear that we will not accept the erosion and dilution of workers’ rights, This includes the denial of a Living Wage, paid sick leave, and flexible working arrangements, particularly as we face the looming threat of tariffs and other economic shocks.
“In these challenging times for workers, the Irish trade union movement will continue to stand for decency, fairness and solidarity — with those at home and abroad who need their voices amplified. We will continue to speak out against the issues that matter most to workers across the island, fighting for housing as a basic human right and defending our public health system, not just as a service, but as a cornerstone of equality and care.”
Welcoming the announcement, Congress General Secretary Owen Reidy said,
“I’m delighted that Phil will be assuming the role of President. In recent months, we’ve seen renewed attacks on workers’ rights and the Government rowing back on their commitments, but the union movement has never been more determined to stand up and deliver for its members. I’m looking forward to working closely with Phil to ensure that we are meeting the challenges and providing a strong voice for workers across the island of Ireland.
“I also want to pay tribute to our outgoing President, Justin McCamphill who has served in the role with distinction since 2023”
