Minister for Justice Helen McEntee has warned that upcoming public sector strikes will not benefit anyone, speaking as a 24-hour school shutdown looms on October 14 following the rejection of invitations to enter talks.

The warning comes amid escalating tensions in the national industrial dispute, with a significant disruption to educational services expected across the country. The planned 24-hour strike action on October 14 is set to close schools nationwide, causing widespread concern for parents, students, and school administrators alike.

Speaking on the matter, Minister McEntee emphasized that industrial action of this nature would not lead to a positive outcome for any of the parties involved. She urged those representing the public sector workers to reconsider their stance and engage in constructive dialogue rather than proceeding with the planned shutdown.

The dispute has intensified following the rejection of invitations to enter formal talks aimed at resolving the outstanding issues. Government representatives have expressed disappointment at the decision to decline negotiations, maintaining that a resolution can only be achieved through direct discussion.

With the October 14 deadline approaching, pressure is mounting on both sides to find a pathway forward that avoids the closure of schools. The Department of Justice and wider government officials continue to monitor the situation, while unions representing the affected workers remain firm on their planned course of action unless their core demands are addressed.