Dublin City Council workers are facing an alarming increase in verbal and physical assaults, with staff reporting significant safety concerns in certain parts of the capital.
Figures show 171 cases of work-related violence were reported in 2024, compared to 140 the previous year. Workers say the situation is getting worse, with some describing specific areas as "no-go zones" due to ongoing threats and attacks.
Criminal gangs are reportedly targeting council staff carrying out routine tasks, such as cutting grass or clearing rubbish, in areas where drugs or weapons are hidden. These encounters have left many workers fearing for their safety on the job.
SIPTU, the union representing council staff, has called for immediate action, including the implementation of a buddy system to prevent workers from operating alone in dangerous situations.
“There’s an urgent need for greater protections,” a SIPTU spokesperson said. “Council workers are essential to the city’s operation and deserve to feel safe while doing their jobs.”
The union is also pressing for the incoming government to prioritize funding for increased Garda presence on the streets, emphasizing the need for a stronger law enforcement response to protect both workers and the wider public.
The rise in violence reflects broader concerns about safety in Dublin and the challenges of addressing crime in certain areas of the city.
