The action plan for 2026-2030 was developed in collaboration with the Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU) and business group Ibec.

It sets out over 20 actions across five strategic pillars, including:

• Understanding Impact – Closing data gaps through targeted research to measure the economic and social benefits of collective bargaining.
• Empowering and Encouraging – Capacity-building programmes, funding for productivity-enhancing agreements, and recognition of best practices.
• Promoting – Public awareness campaigns, a new Code of Practice, and exploration of tax incentives to support union membership.
• Protecting – Legislative reviews to safeguard workers’ rights and strengthen protections for trade union representatives.
• Supporting Institutions – Investment in digitalisation, enhanced dispute resolution, and modernisation of the Workplace Relations Commission and Labour Court.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “Collective bargaining is a cornerstone of trust and fairness in the workplace. 

“This action plan strengthens our voluntarist tradition, fosters constructive dialogue, and ensures Ireland remains a leader in social cohesion and competitiveness.

“I welcome this agreement between government and social partners as a testament to the value of ongoing engagement under the Labour Employer Economic Forum.”

Enterprise, tourism and employment minister Peter Burke said: “This plan represents a balanced, forward-looking approach to industrial relations.

“By investing in skills and deepening social dialogue, we are ensuring collective bargaining continues to support decent work, competitiveness, and sustainable growth.

“I thank ICTU and Ibec for their partnership and look forward to delivering this plan for the benefit of workers and employers alike.”

Alan Dillon, the minister of state for employment, small business and retail, added: “Collective bargaining is about more than negotiations — it’s about fairness, reducing inequality, and building trust.

“This plan reaffirms Ireland’s commitment to constructive social dialogue and to creating workplaces that are resilient and equitable in a changing world of work.”