In an apparent setback to the Government's decentralisation programme, SIPTU representatives in State agencies have voted to step up their campaign of opposition to the relocation plan.
The country's largest union argues that State agency workers are particularly disadvantaged because, unlike civil servants, they do not have the flexibility to indicate a preference to move from one department to another if relocation does not suit them.
After a meeting at Liberty Hall this morning, the officials representing around 1500 workers facing decentralisation voted to continue their boycott of the Central Application Facility for transfers to new locations outside Dublin.
However, they will also adopt a new policy of non co-operation with formulation of implementation plans to progress the relocations.
The Government has consistently defended the project, arguing that many civil and State agency employees are anxious to move out of Dublin.
They insist decentralisation will bring benefits to towns around the country with no loss of service to the public.
