Barristers specializing in criminal law are set to strike for the third time this month in protest of pay cuts imposed after the financial crisis. The Bar of Ireland members will gather at 11 courthouses nationwide, including the Four Courts in Dublin, demanding the restoration of their fees and a review of the current pay structure.
Despite a 10% increase in fees in the last budget, the barristers argue that it does not fully compensate for the cuts made since 2008. They feel let down by the lack of progress in discussions with the Government, despite expressing support for fee restoration.
Highlighted by Senior Counsel Sara Phelan and incoming chair Seán Guerin, the barristers lament the leadership vacuum in addressing their concerns. The strike will disrupt court proceedings, forcing adjournments in various criminal courts around the country.
The protesters are determined to push forward with their demands for fair compensation and are prepared to take further action if necessary to resolve the ongoing pay dispute.